Equalities ‘devolved’: experiences in mainstreaming across the UK devolved powers post-Equality Act 2010

Abstract

In an increasing number of jurisdictions, gender mainstreaming approaches have been supplemented with attention to other equality areas, including race and disability. The UK is among the most advanced countries in mainstreaming ‘equality’, with nine equality areas protected in law and a joined-up equality infrastructure. Among the nations of the UK there are, however, important distinctions in implementation of the law. In this article, we present findings of cross sectoral qualitative research (with academic, public and third sectors) aimed at understanding the progress of equality mainstreaming in the UK some years on from the implementation of the Equality Act 2010, with a specific focus on the devolved administrations of Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales. We identify areas of progress as well as barriers to change and proposed solutions for the future.