3.1Schedule 9 4. (2) (a) on matters to which a duty – Section 75 (1) or (2) – is likely to be relevant, including details of the persons to be consulted.

3.2Schedule 9 4. (2) (b) on the likely impact of policies we have adopted or propose to adopt on the promotion of equality of opportunity.

3.3We recognise the importance of consultation in all aspects of the implementation of our statutory equality duties. We will consult on our equality scheme, action measures, equality impact assessments and other matters relevant to the Section 75 statutory duties.

3.4We are committed to carrying out consultation in accordance with the following principles, as contained in the Equality Commission's guidance Section 75 of the Northern Ireland Act 1998 – A Guide for Public Authorities:

All consultations will seek the views of those directly affected by the matter/policy, the Equality Commission, representative groups of Section 75 categories, other public authorities, voluntary and community groups, our staff and their trades unions and such other groups who have a legitimate interest in the matter, whether or not they have a direct economic or personal interest.
(Equality Commission, April 2010)

3.5Initially, all consultees (see appendix 3) will be notified (by email or post) of the matter/policy being consulted on, to ensure that they are aware of all consultations. Thereafter, to ensure the most effective use of our and our consultees‟ resources, we will take a targeted approach to consultation for those consultees who may have a particular interest in the matter/policy being consulted on and to whom the matter/policy is of particular relevance. This may include, for example, regional or local consultation, or sectoral or thematic consultation.

3.6Consultation with all relevant stakeholders will begin as early as possible. We will engage with affected individuals and representative groups to identify how best to consult or engage with them. Consultees may request preferred consultation methods, and we will give consideration to these. Methods of consultation could include:

• Face-to-face meetings
• Focus groups
• Written documents with the opportunity to comment in writing
• Questionnaires
• Information/notification by email with an opportunity to opt in or out of the consultation
• Internet discussions
• Telephone consultation.

3.7This list is not exhaustive, and we may develop additional methods of consultation that are more appropriate to key stakeholders and the matter/policy being consulted on.

3.8We will consider the accessibility and format of every method of consultation we use in order to remove barriers to the consultation process. Specific consideration will be given to the best ways to communicate with young people, people with disabilities (in particular people with learning disabilities) and minority ethnic communities. We will take account of existing and developing good practice, including the Equality Commission's guidance Let’s Talk, Let’s Listen – Guidance for Public Authorities on Consulting and Involving Children and Young People (2008).

3.9Information will be made available, on request, in alternative formats⁵, in a timely manner, usually within a fortnight. We will ensure that consultees have appropriate time to respond.

3.10Specific training is provided to those facilitating consultations to ensure that they have the necessary skills to communicate effectively with consultees.

3.11To ensure effective consultation with consultees⁶ on Section 75 matters, we are ensuring that staff involved in consulting have the necessary skills, knowledge and expertise.

3.12If a consultation exercise is to take place over a period when consultees are less able to respond, for example over the summer or Christmas break, or if the policy under consideration is particularly complex, we will give consideration to the feasibility of allowing a longer period for the consultation.

3.13We are conscious of the fact that affected individuals and representative groups may have different needs. We will take appropriate measures to ensure full participation in any meetings that are held. We will consider, for example, the time of day, the appropriateness of the venue, in particular whether it can be accessed by those with disabilities, how the meeting is to be conducted, the use of appropriate language, the need for a signer and/or interpreter, and whether the provision of childcare and support for other carers is required.

3.14We will make all relevant information available to consultees in appropriate formats to ensure meaningful consultation. This includes detailed information on the policy proposal being consulted on and any relevant quantitative and qualitative data.

3.15In making any decision with respect to a policy we have adopted or propose to adopt, we will take into account any assessment or consultation carried out in relation to the policy.

3.16We will provide feedback to consultees in a timely manner. A feedback report is prepared that includes summary information on the policy consulted on, a summary of consultees‟ comments and a summary of our consideration of and response to consultees‟ input. The feedback is provided in formats suitable to consultees.

3.17A list of our consultees is included in appendix 3 of this equality scheme. It is also available on our website at: www.ofqual.gov.uk.

3.18Our list of consultees is not exhaustive and is reviewed on an annual basis to ensure that it remains relevant to our functions and policies. Additional consultees may be added at any time during the year, if appropriate.

3.19We welcome enquiries from any individuals or organisations wishing to be added to the list of consultees or to have their contact details removed or amended. Please also inform us at this stage if you would like information sent to you in a particular format or language.