MIAA helped the Trust to:

• Benchmark its EHIA arrangements against NHS good practice.
• Identify strengths and areas for improvement across governance, processes and capability.
• Understand barriers affecting the quality and impact of assessments.
• Develop a clear and prioritised improvement plan.
• Strengthen arrangements to support equality, inclusion and the reduction of health inequalities.

The Challenge

A Trust commissioned MIAA to undertake an independent review of its Equality and Health Inequalities Impact Assessment (EHIA) arrangements. The aim, to understand whether its existing processes were proportionate, effective and supporting meaningful decision-making rather than operating purely as a compliance exercise. The review sought to assess how EHIAs were being applied across policies, strategies, capital projects and service change programmes, as well as identify opportunities to strengthen governance, training, quality assurance and organisational impact.

Our Approach

MIAA designed and delivered a comprehensive review using a mixed-method methodology. This approach enabled us to assess not only compliance with requirements, but also the practical effectiveness of EHIA processes in supporting better outcomes for patients, service users and staff.

The review identified a strong organisational commitment to equality, inclusion and reducing health inequalities. It also identified opportunities to further mature the Trust's approach.

The Outcome

The review has provided a platform for the Trust to move from compliance-focused impact assessment towards a more mature, evidence-based approach that integrates equality considerations into decision-making, service development and organisational improvement.

MIAA provided the Trust with a practical improvement roadmap designed to support the development of a more embedded, organisation-wide EHIA system. Recommendations were prioritised and grouped into themed programmes.

The recommendations focused on ensuring EHIA becomes a recognised decision-support tool that strengthens organisational decision-making, helps reduce inequalities and improves outcomes for both patients and staff.

The client stated:

"The review is thorough, of high quality and has evidenced … where we are at in terms of EHIA implementation as an organisation. This report will enable us to build on our foundations and governance and make a difference to our patients and to our staff.”

We help NHS organisations use Equality and Health Inequalities Impact Assessment as a tool for better decision-making, improved outcomes and reduced inequalities.

Contact us to discuss how we can help your organisation.