Equality Impact Assessment training

If you are new to completing Equality Impact Assessments (EIAs), or would benefit from refresher training, we are running a number of awareness raising sessions in 2026. All of our Cabinet papers include a requirement to record whether an EIA has been completed. All EIAs as part of our broader Integrated Impact Assessment (IIA) are also required to be in the ‘public domain’ and are published online.

The sessions cover:

• an introduction to and familiarisation with EIAs
• the legal context of EIAs
• what to consider when preparing an EIA

The sessions will be held on:

• Wednesday, 4 February 2026
• Wednesday, 6 May 2026
• Tuesday, 7 July 2026
• Tuesday, 1 September 2026
• Wednesday, 4 November 2026

Each online session will run between 10am to miday. To sign up or if you have any questions, please email Linda Alexander – lalexander@eastlothian.gov.uk

What is an Equality Impact assessment (EIA)?

An EIA is a structured, evidence-based method that seeks to measure the effectiveness, relevance, and sustainability of our proposed actions and interventions (projects, policies, what we do) which impact people and communities (protected characteristics). It was introduced within the Equality Act 2010 and is a legal requirement forming part of our Public Specific Equality Duties (PSED).

Drop in to the Wellbeing Hub

Have you heard about the new Wellbeing Hub in the foyer at East Lothian Community Hospital? 

Every Wednesday, midday to 2pm

There's no appointment is needed - just drop in for a chat. It's open to everyone, regardless of age and it offers confidential support - everything you share stays private.

---

What’s on offer?

Someone to listen if you're feeling overwhelmed, low, or just need to talk.

Connections to local mental health and wellbeing groups.

Practical help with:

• benefits
• housing
• money worries
• food and bills support

Work and training support:

Help finding courses, job opportunities, and confidence-building resources.

Support for you or your family to get into work.

Community involvement:

Find local groups that match your interests.

Get support to start volunteering.

Who you'll meet:

Every week, you can meet friendly staff from:

• • Citizens Advice Bureau
  • Volunteer Centre East Lothian
  • East Lothian Works or Families Together East Lothian

In addition, there are monthly visits from:

• • Community Learning Disability Team
  • Improving the Cancer Journey
  • Other organisations (check Wellbeing Hub Calendar for details)

Referrals and support

Staff at the hub can’t make direct referrals to psychological services, but they can put you in touch with a single point of contact for mental health support and local organisations that can help.

Staff at the hub can refer you to:

• • East Lothian Foodbank
  • Community First
  • Other helpful organisations

Just drop in. Whatever’s going on, the Wellbeing Hub is there to help you.

If you can’t make it to the hub, remember that support is available to you 24/7 from the Employee Assistance Programme VIVUP

You can also talk to one of our Listening Ears about anything that’s on your mind – just search for “Listening Ears” on the intranet homepage to find their contact details.