Title

DEVOLUTION

How devolution can amplify the voices that often go unheard

Gita Singham-Willis says that acting with intent now will ensure that the new era of local power creates an inclusion legacy for future generations.

© carmelita / shutterstock

As the UK Government accelerates its devolution agenda, I see a landscape of both immense promise and significant risk. Shifting power from Westminster to regional authorities is a significant move, but it leaves me asking: what does this mean for the future of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI)?

On paper, the logic is sound. Devolution should empower local leaders to shape services around the specific needs of their residents. However, shifts in political authority are rarely neutral; they either expand horizons of opportunity or reinforce existing barriers. If we don't hard-wire inclusion into the architecture of these new devolved structures today, we risk missing the chance to build a truly cohesive nation.

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