These are challenging times for everyone. But for those of us who work in and/or committed to equality in the UK there are tremendous opportunities to use the new Equality Act 2010 to advance equality. But first we need to ensure we know what the law says and how to make best use of it. Institute of Equality and Diversity Practitioners are putting on a programme of training on important aspects of the Act for practitioners, those of us who advise and support organisations implement equality whether in the public private or Third sectors.

We are beginning with a seminar on the Public Sector Duty (PSD) which comes into effect in April 2011 preparation for its requirements must begin now. The seminar will be led by Dianna Yach and Linda Bellos to both set the scene of the general and specific duties and outline the necessary preparatory steps. Throughout the months of March to December there will be training events in London, Manchester, Birmingham and the regions on the PSD and some of the Act itself. If you have already received training on the Act you might still benefit from working with your peers to support, enhance or share your knowledge.

More courses and dates will be added to the programme as members offer suitable venues and demand dictates. These are not money making events but we hope to generate a surplus to help fund the Institutes activities. Institute of Equality and Diversity Practitioners is a not for profit organisation run by and for its members, please join if you have not already done so and tell your friends.

Please book early to help us plan.