Ayrshire

FOREWORD

Ayrshire Valuation Joint Board produced its first Race Equality Scheme in 2003. We now have the opportunity to review the Scheme, bring it up to date and republish it. In doing this we have learned from our experiences over the past three years.

Equality of opportunity and good race relations are fundamental components of a civilised society. I am committed to eliminating discrimination in all its forms. While this Scheme focuses on race, we will build on it to meet all the commitments in the Board's Equal Opportunities Policy. Our aim is to be seen as an employer of choice and an organisation that recognises people's skills and the contribution they can make to delivering quality and effective services to the people of East, North and South Ayrshire.

In developing and putting this scheme into effect we recognise that Ayrshire has a very small black and minority ethnic population compared to other places in Scotland and that Ayrshire Valuation Joint Board do not have the resources of the larger Councils. This is not however an excuse for inaction.

I intend to ensure that we deliver on the proposals and action plans within this scheme by monitoring and auditing our performance and reporting on progress to Ayrshire Valuation Joint Board Members and citizens of East, North and South Ayrshire.