What is the policy / strategy / function / trying to achieve / do?
North Lanarkshire Council introduced a Garden Waste Permit Scheme, requiring households to purchase an annual permit for the collection of garden waste. This brings North Lanarkshire into alignment with the majority of other Scottish local authorities who have introduced similar charges in response to ongoing financial pressures. This scheme will generate income and reduce budget pressures in respect of garden waste collection service.
If the policy is subject to the FSD what does it suggest about the impact or potential impact on socio-economic disadvantage?
Potential impact on households on low or fixed incomes, low wealth and area deprivation, as the additional cost of a garden waste permit may be difficult to afford, even if relatively low. This may lead to reduced access to the service for some, or unintended behaviours (e.g. fly-tipping, burning garden waste).
Give details of the impact it has on groups and individuals
Older people who are potentially more likely to experience poverty - particularly women, and more likely to be digitally unskilled to purchase permit.
Visually Impaired people may have issues accessing information on website an online system.
People with English as a second language may have issues with understanding information relating to the change and accessing the online system.
Many carers live in poverty and may be unable to meet additional cost of a garden waste permit.
What actions / measures will be put in place or are planned to mitigate any adverse impact or promote equality?
Our assisted collection for eligible residents is still in place to pull out and return bins for those who are unable to do this.
Clear communication on the scheme and alternative options to dispose of garden waste have been developed and are available on the council’s website. Our website has been developed to ensure everyone can access information, including:
- change colours, contrast levels and fonts
- zoom in up to 300% without the text spilling off the screen
- navigate most of the website using just a keyboard
- navigate most of the website using speech recognition software
- listen to most of the website using a screen reader.
We've also made the website text as simple as possible to understand.
The website uses digital accessibility software which helps people who:
- can't see very well
- find some words difficult or have difficulty reading
- speak a different language
This is available by clicking on the 'Accessibility tools' link at the top of the website and includes text-to-speech, reading, styling and language translation tools.
A contact number is available to provide an alternative communication channel for people who are unable to order a permit online.
Free disposal of garden waste at our Household Waste Recycling Centres (HWRC) is available.
What is the result / recommendations of the EqIA?
Introduce the policy.