SCRA publishes equality progress report highlighting sector-leading inclusion work

We have published our latest Mainstreaming and Equality Outcomes Progress Report, showcasing significant progress in embedding equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI) across our services, workforce and governance.

Covering the period from April 2024 to September 2025, the report demonstrates how SCRA is not only meeting its statutory duties under the Equality Act 2010 and the Public Sector Equality Duty, but actively exceeding them through strategic, trauma-informed and rights-based approaches.

Key achievements include:

• Full integration of EDI within SCRA’s Rights, Inclusion & Corporate Parenting Strategy.
• Establishment of a Locality EDI Lead Network and expansion of the Inclusion Ambassador programme.
• Transition to new mandatory training modules and the introduction of Active Bystander training.
• Sector-leading work on neurodiversity, BSL access, and LGBT+ inclusion, including renewed commitment to the LGBT Youth Scotland Charter
• Launch of a 3-year Anti-Racism Programme, including a dedicated Black & Asian Staff Group and a forthcoming research study into bias in decision-making within the Children’s Hearings System.

In recognition of its inclusive practice, SCRA was awarded a Gold TIDE Award by the Employers Network for Equality and Inclusion (enei) in September 2025.

Sarah Wood, Inclusion and Diversity Manager said: “This report reflects the dedication of our staff to creating a fairer, more inclusive Children’s Hearings System. We are proud of the progress made and we are committed to continuing this work in partnership with children, families and communities.”

The report also outlines progress against SCRA’s four Equality Outcomes for 2024–2027, covering children’s equality data, inclusive recruitment, anti-racism, and socio-economic disadvantage.