Analysis of Equality Law Call for Evidence Published

Overview of the Call for Evidence

Between 7 April and 30 June 2025, the Office for Equality and Opportunity (OEO) conducted a Call for Evidence (CfE) to examine the practical operation of equality law and identify potential areas for reform. Fortia Insight analysed 147 eligible submissions from various stakeholders, including individuals, organisations, and researchers.

Key Policy Areas

• Equal Pay: Respondents highlighted that pay discrimination remains persistent, often linked to structural issues like occupational segregation. There were widespread calls for clearer guidance, improved pay transparency, and stronger enforcement mechanisms.
• Combined Discrimination: Most submissions suggested that the current legal framework is insufficient to address intersectional discrimination. Many participants supported the commencement of Section 14 of the Equality Act 2010 but noted its scope should be expanded to include indirect discrimination.
• Public Sector Equality Duty (PSED): Feedback indicated inconsistent compliance among non-public bodies delivering public functions. Suggestions for improvement include mandatory Equality Impact Assessments (EIAs) and integrated contractual requirements.
• Workplace Harassment: Effective prevention strategies include confidential reporting systems and clear disciplinary measures. Concerns were raised regarding the overuse of non-disclosure agreements and a lack of specific protections for volunteers.

Implementation and Verification

The full analysis, conducted by Fortia Insight, details these findings and suggested procedural shifts. Stakeholders and members of the public can review the original publication and the methodology used for the analysis at the official GOV.UK website.