A More Equal Wales: The Socio-economic Duty

The Socio-economic Duty came into force in Wales on 31 March 2021. It improves decision making and helps those who are socio-economically disadvantaged.

The Socio-economic Duty gives us an opportunity to do things differently in Wales. It puts tackling inequality at the heart of decision-making, and will build on the good work public bodies are already doing.

What does the Socio-economic Duty mean for public bodies?

The introduction of the Socio-economic Duty means that some public bodies now have to think about how their strategic decisions, such as setting objectives and developing public services, can improve inequality of outcome for people who suffer socio-economic disadvantage.

Read the Socio-economic Duty statutory guidance.

What is inequality of outcome?

Inequality of outcome relates to any measureable difference in outcome between those who have experienced socio-economic disadvantage and those who have not.

Some examples of inequalities of outcome include; lower levels of good health, lower paid work, poorer educational attainment and an increased risk of being a victim of crime. 

What will the Socio-economic Duty achieve?

Through better decision making, the duty will improve the outcomes for those who suffer socio-economic disadvantage. The Duty will contribute towards a fairer and more prosperous Wales.

Progress tracker

Track the progress of your organisation.

Our new animation explains the Duty:

Watch the British Sign Language version (BSL).

Molly’s story: her experience of socio-economic disadvantage:

• Listen to people sharing their personal experience of socio-economic disadvantage.
• Watch our film on the Socio-economic Duty aimed at public sector leaders.
• Catch up on past webinar events.
• Tap into our new short e learning module (Access through the guest log on).