The Less Favoured Area Support Scheme (Scotland) Amendment Regulations 2019: EQIA

Stage 1: Framing

Results of framing exercise

The eligibility for the LFASS scheme is land based and not related to any protected characteristic or personal factor. It was noted that an EQIA was developed for the entire SRDP 2014-2020 and this policy update is to an existing scheme and to comply with changes to EU regulations. It was considered appropriate to determine if there was any new evidence available in relation to rural areas and the protected characteristics to inform the approach taken and to enable an updated EQIA to be produced.

The results and key findings of the framing exercise from SRDP 2014-2020 EQIA were noted along with the Rural and Environment Science and Analytical Services (RESAS) Review of Equality Evidence in Rural Scotland report from the same time.

This EQIA is not intended to replace the one undertaken for the entire SRDP but to complement it and provide an update in relation to the protected characteristics in rural Scotland and their relationship to LFASS.

Extent/Level of EQIA required

The research undertaken provides updated information in relation to the protected characteristics, notably providing some evidence on gender assignment when the prior EQIA had none, but the information indicated there had been minimal change to what was understood when the overall SRDP was developed.

We will continue to develop our monitoring systems and engage with relevant stakeholder groups on equality issues. The inclusion of equality related questions in future surveys and the 2021 census will assist in programme evaluation and future policy development.

The level of updated EQIA produced is proportionate with regard to the scheme eligibility criteria, prior EQIA and evidence available.