JAC Equality Objectives 2012 - 2016

The Judicial Appointments Commission (JAC) seeks to deliver processes which are fair and ensure all applicants receive equal treatment.
Under the Constitutional Reform Act 2005 the JAC must select solely on merit. That combined with the requirement to encourage diversity in the range of persons available for selection will ensure that the most meritorious candidates will succeed and that the best judges will be appointed.

The Equality Act 2010 applied a general equality duty to the JAC. The equality duty requires public authorities to have due regard to the need to eliminate discrimination, advance equality of opportunity and foster good relations. In addition the JAC is subject to specific duties as set out in the regulations that came into force on 10 September 2011. The duty requires the JAC to publish relevant, proportionate information demonstrating compliance with the equality duty and to set specific, measurable equality objectives.

The JAC objectives for 2012-2016 are split into four distinct areas; outreach, fair and open processes, monitoring, and promoting diversity within our staff. Each objective and the associated outcomes are detailed below. Reference to statistical data in Objective 4 refers to four specific areas, namely; gender, ethnicity, disability and professional background. This is in line with the Commission's identified under represented groups. However, all protected characteristics, as defined in the Equality Act 2010, are considered when carrying out equality assessments.

Objective headlines

1. To widen the pool of candidates applying for judicial positions through communication and outreach activities

2. To ensure that all JAC selection exercise policies, procedures and practices are free of any unintended bias ensuring all candidates experience a fair and open process

3. To monitor the diversity of candidates selected for judicial appointment (against the eligible pool where available) and take remedial action where appropriate

4. Promoting diversity in the workplace and ensuring that the JAC meet the requirements of the Equality Act 2010 as an employer.

To the right of the page you can download full details of JAC Equality Objectives 2012 - 2016 and the current progress made to date in the Equality Objectives action plan.