Barnsley Hospital NHS Foundation Trust: Equalities Audit and Training Support

Equality Works were commissioned to carry out an initial audit of equality and diversity strategy and policy at the Trust. The aim was to identify existing good practice as well as priorities and opportunities for further development. This involved desk research and document review as well as telephone interviews and consultation with key personnel, to produce a report summarising key findings and a range of practical recommendations.

Equality Works also provided 1-day impact assessment training for Trust staff from a variety of roles and areas of responsibility, including Operational Management, Nursing, Estates and Facilities. The aim was to support departments in recognising impact assessment, as required by law, as a useful tool for reviewing and improving the patient experience.

The course was tailored to the acute NHS Trust context using telephone interviews with a selection of delegates and desk research at the training needs analysis stage. The programme included work to further develop skills in reviewing evidence to identify barriers in services and employment, looking at how services are accessed, experienced and monitored.

As a follow up to the programme, we provided one to one coaching to support managers in conducting assessments. This helped managers to think about changes in the ways in which services were delivered, or to think about collecting and sharing data that gives the Trust a better sense of patient engagement.

We also designed and delivered a 2-day harassment advisers course which included an update on equality law and trust policies as well as practical tips and skills practice, to support the re-launch of this service.