Focal Point Group
Working with our partners
We work closely with a number of equality organisations to ensure that our work is inclusive and takes into account the needs and experiences of different groups. One of the ways we do this is through our Focal Point Groups.
Focal Point Groups are made of third sector organisations who work closely with customers from equality groups. We regularly consult and involve these organisations in the design and development of our services to customers, and in our approach as an employer, to ensure that we are taking into account the needs and experiences of different groups. We currently engage with over 50 organisations across 4 Focal Point Groups, covering:
- Care Experience
- Disability
- Race
- Women & Girls
Some examples of the work we have done with our partners via the Focal Point Groups are noted below.
Digital user testing
SDS has used the relationships developed with the Disability Focal Point Group members to extend the reach of digital user-testing, reaching over 1,000 people. The feedback from this testing has been used to improve SDS digital service offer to disabled people. This includes changes to make our digital services content more meaningful and ensure the design and functionality are inclusive and accessible.
SDS has recently introduced an online translation service. The accuracy and usability of these translations have been tested by members of the Race Focal Point Group.
CPD for learning providers
We worked with Focal Point Groups members, Equate and Close the Gap to identify key training and support for learning providers. Feedback from the Women and Girls Focal Point Group highlighted the need for targeted training and development to better support women and girls. As a result, Equate Scotland ran training for work-based learning providers on ‘creating inclusive workspaces’ with 79 attendees and Close the Gap ran training on ‘equally safe at work: tackling sexual harassment’ with 31 attendees.