Responding to Substance Use (Including Vapes and Other Nicotine Products) in Schools - equality impact assessment

The Scope of the EQIA

A full EQIA was undertaken.

This considered all relevant protected characteristics as they apply to schools. In addition, the protected characteristic of age was considered, recognising that the guidance applies to children and young people and that patterns of substance use vary across age groups, particularly in secondary school.

The three Public Sector Equality Duty needs were also considered: eliminating unlawful discrimination, advancing equality of opportunity, and fostering good relations.

The approach to the development of the EQIA focused on published Scottish research and data relating to substance use, wellbeing, behaviour and inequalities. This included national research, health and wellbeing data and international evidence. The development of the guidance was informed by stakeholder engagement through a subgroup including education, health and professional partners, and this engagement also informed the EQIA process.