Using Equality Impact Assessment to Evidence Social Value in Care Services
Equality impact assessment (EIA) is increasingly referenced in public sector commissioning as a mechanism for demonstrating how decisions affect different groups. In adult social care, EIAs provide a practical way to evidence social value by showing how equality considerations influence real operational choices. This article is part of the Equality, Diversity & Inclusion (EDI) in Social Value series and connects to the wider Social Value Knowledge Hub.
What Equality Impact Assessment Looks Like in Practice
An effective EIA is not a form completed once and filed away. It is a decision-support tool that identifies potential inequality, informs mitigation and provides evidence of thoughtful, inclusive practice.
Operational Example 1: Service Model Changes
Context: A provider restructures shift patterns to address staffing pressures.
Support approach: An EIA is completed to assess potential impacts on people using services and staff.
Day-to-day delivery detail: Managers consider whether changes disproportionately affect people with specific needs, such as communication barriers or reliance on consistent staffing. Adjustments are made to preserve continuity for those at higher risk.
How effectiveness is evidenced: Reduced complaints, stable outcomes and documented rationale demonstrate informed decision-making.
Operational Example 2: Introduction of Digital Systems
Context: A service introduces digital care planning and rostering.
Support approach: The provider assesses accessibility and digital exclusion risks.
Day-to-day delivery detail: Alternatives are maintained for staff and individuals with limited digital access. Training is adapted to different learning needs.
How effectiveness is evidenced: Uptake rates, training completion and reduced errors are monitored.
Operational Example 3: Changes to Community Access
Context: Community-based activities are redesigned following safeguarding concerns.
Support approach: An EIA considers whether restrictions disproportionately affect certain individuals.
Day-to-day delivery detail: Risk controls are individualised, and opportunities are preserved where safe to do so.
How effectiveness is evidenced: Increased participation and reduced restrictive practices demonstrate impact.
Commissioner Expectation
Commissioner expectation: Commissioners expect providers to show how equality considerations inform operational decisions and mitigate unintended negative impacts.
Regulator / Inspector Expectation
Regulator expectation: Inspectors expect proportionate, person-centred decision-making that avoids discrimination and unnecessary restriction.
Using EIA to Strengthen Social Value Evidence
When EIAs are embedded into governance and reviewed over time, they provide clear evidence of inclusive practice and continuous improvement, strengthening social value narratives.