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Equality data is about far more than numbers. It helps us understand colleagues’ experiences, recognise where inequalities exist and take meaningful action to create a fairer and more inclusive workplace. Behind every declaration is a person, a lived experience and a voice that deserves to be seen and heard.

We recently reinstated the Equality portlet on ESR, making it easier for colleagues to review and update their equality information. Although declaration rates have improved since March 2023, some areas still show high levels of unknown data. Religion has the highest proportion of unknown records at 28.52%, followed by Sexual Orientation at 18.14% and Disability at 14.87%. Marital Status stands at 10.84% and Race at 7.44%, with many of these remaining gaps likely linked to historical records or process-related issues. This reminds us that improving equality data is not only about systems and processes, but also about building trust, confidence and an environment where colleagues feel safe and supported to share their information.

We also recognise that ESR may not always fully reflect everyone’s identity or experience. Work is already underway nationally to improve future equality systems, and your feedback and insight can help shape what comes next.

 With all this in mind, we would really value hearing your views on why equality data matters and how completing the ESR Equality Declaration can help us create a fairer, more inclusive workplace for everyone.

 If you would like to contribute, please choose any two questions below to respond to. The guidance under each question is optional and is there to help shape your response. Your contribution will help strengthen inclusion across the Trust.

 You can share your response as either a short video (maximum 2 minutes) or a written response (maximum 500 words). Please let Jismy.VellakunathuKunjachan@mft.nhs.uk  know which option you would prefer by 12^th June 2026, and support can be provided to help you shape your response or record your video if helpful.

Please select any two of the questions below for your video or written response:

1. Why does equality data matter to you?
   Reflect on what makes this personally or professionally important. Why does it matter to you as an individual or in your role?
2. Why is it important for colleagues to complete their ESR Equality Declaration?
   Consider how accurate data helps support fairness, representation and informed decision-making across the Trust.
3. Has completing your declaration made a difference?
   Share any examples where accurate data has contributed to improvements in staff experience, policy, representation or inclusion.
4. What would you say to colleagues who are unsure about updating their information?
   Your perspective could help others feel more confident and informed about sharing their data.
5. What are your views on selecting “unknown” or “prefer not to say” in ESR?
   Recognising that updating this information is voluntary, how do you think these choices affect our understanding of workforce diversity and inclusion?
6. How has access to accurate equality data influenced decisions or improvements in your team or department?
   Share examples of how data has been used to drive change or inform local initiatives.
7. What would encourage colleagues who haven’t yet updated their ESR information to feel confident in doing so?
   Think about ways to improve trust, confidence or accessibility when sharing equality information.
8. Have you noticed any gaps or limitations in ESR that make it difficult to fully capture staff diversity?
   Your feedback can help highlight system improvements or additional options that may better reflect staff identity.
9. In your view, how does equality data support fairness in recruitment, progression, pay, or development opportunities?
   Reflect on the impact of accurate data on equitable workforce practices.
10. Can you share an example of a positive change or initiative that relied on accurate equality data?
    Your story can help demonstrate the real-world benefits of complete and reliable workforce data.

We recognise that updating ESR is voluntary. If you would prefer not to update your information, you can still support this work through our “Nothing to Declare” campaign (Click here to access the Nothing to Declare Form- if you do not wish to declare equality information in ESR), which aims to help us better understand the reasons behind non-declaration. Taking part in either option will help build trust, understanding and visibility across the Trust.

Please contact Jismy at jismy.vellakunathukunjachan@mft.nhs.uk if you would like to contribute/participate. 

Thank you for your support and partnership in creating meaningful change.