DH accepts criticism over race record

The Department of Health has admitted it needs to improve its record on race following scathing criticisms from the Commission for Racial Equality.

Following yesterday’s CRE claims, as reported by Community Care, that the DH had not conducted a race equality impact assessment on any of its policies, the department said it was devising a plan to ensure such assessments are carried out.

A spokesperson said: “The Department takes the CRE’s concerns very seriously and acknowledges that we have more to do.”

The DH was given 21 working days to respond satisfactorily to the CRE’s criticisms, detailed in a letter on 11 August, or face a formal investigation by the commission, which could prompt recommendations enforceable by law.

It was unable to confirm whether it had conducted any impact assessments, as required by the Race Relations (Amendment) Act 2000.

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Department of Health

CRE