Agenda item

Report of the Chamberlain.

The Committee considered a report of the Chamberlain on the Chamberlain’s Court Equality and Diversity Survey.

The Committee questioned what action could be taken to improve the diversity of those applying for the Freedom, and whether there were any obstacles to applicants that could discourage them from applying. It was also questioned if enough was being done in terms of positive communication and messaging surrounding the Freedom.

A Member suggested that Freedom by Patrimony could be a potential issue in relation to both the diversity of those applying for the Freedom, as well as issues of perception. Discussion ensued on the methodology used by Livery Companies with regard to Freedom by Patrimony.

The Livery composition was a clear indicator of equality and diversity, and the Committee agreed that this was an area that the Livery Committee should be actively promoting. It was noted that the Equality and Diversity Survey had been to the Livery Committee previously and it was proposed that both the Freedom Applications Committee and the Livery Committee could work together to encourage a more positive and open message and method regarding Freedom applications to improve equality and diversity.

The Committee suggested a number of ways that equality and diversity could be improved, for example working with City Academies and Schools, as well as considering sponsorships for example with Christ’s Hospital.

The Committee agreed that the Clerk to the Chamberlains Court would investigate options to improve equality and diversity in applications for the Freedom, and to raise the issue with the Livery Committee to address any barriers to applying for the Freedom.

RESOLVED – That:-

1)    The Clerk to the Chamberlains Court would investigate options of improving equality and diversity in applications for the Freedom with City Academies, Schools and sponsorships; and

2)    The Clerk to the Chamberlains Court would raise the issue of improving equality and diversity with the Livery Committee.