Equality Screening – Draft Climate Change Action Strategy (CCAS)

S75 Equality And Good Relations Screening Form

General Information: Policy, Procedure & Strategy

This is a new policy, procedure and strategy.

Operational Area: Climate change/ Infrastructure

Title: Climate Change Action Strategy (CCAS)

Brief Summary:

To deliver a just and ambitious transition to net zero and climate resilience across the causeway coast and Glens Borough council area, in line with national targets, while protecting natural resources, supporting communities and improving wellbeing.

What is it trying to achieve? (intended aims and outcomes)

To set out the council's strategic approach to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and adapting to the impacts of climate change this includes actions across energy transport, infrastructure and estates, resources management, governance, economy, council facilities biodiversity and community resilience.
- Outline our goals for mitigating and adapting to climate change within the organisation.
- To meet the requirements of the climate change act (Northern Ireland 2022) and the climate change reporting bodies.

Who owns and who implements each element of the function, service, policy, procedure, project, strategy, plan or guidance?

The elected members are the decision makers.
Infrastructure department is responsible for coordination.
It is then implemented by the climate change lead and relevant heads of service.

Other policies etc. which have a bearing on this function, service, policy, procedure, project, strategy, plan or guidance?

Strategies:

• NI strategy for waste
• NI climate act
• DAERA Targets (extend)
• NICCAP3 Northern Ireland Climate Change Action Plan
• Environmental strategy for NI
• Uk wide legislation
• UK carbon budget
• Green growth strategy
• Biodiversity strategy
• Climate change committee Risk Assessment 3
• CCGBC - Council Corporate Strategy 2021-2025
• CCGBC – Community Planning Strategy 2017-2030
• CCGBC – Recovery and Renewal (Economic Strategy) 2020-2035
• CCGBC – Digital Strategy 2020-2023
• CCGBC - Destination Management Strategy 2025-2035
• Draft NI programme for Government Framework 2024-2027
• New Decade, New Approach Deal 2020
• DoE Economic Strategy 2022-2026
• DfI – NI Regional Development Strategy 2035
• DfC - Building Inclusive Communities Strategy 2020-2025
• Lifetime Opportunities: Government’s Antipoverty and Social Inclusion Strategy for NI
• Section 75 of the Northern Ireland Act 1998.

Available Evidence

What evidence/information (both qualitative and quantitative have you gathered to inform this function, service, policy, procedure, project, strategy, plan or guidance? Specify details for relevant Section 75 categories.

It is proposed that all Section 75 categories will be considered via:
• Quantitative evidence has been sourced via the NI Census in 2021 and the Northern Ireland Life and Times Survey 2020.
• Energy usage stats
• Carbon stats
• Council current usage
• NI wide stats for energy
• Emissions break down Councils
• NI wide.
• DAERA stats for Rural areas.

Section 75 Category Details of Evidence/Information:

• The Census statistics in 2021 collated by NISRA statistics detailed the usual resident population of Causeway Coast & Glens Local Government District to be 141,746 accounting for 7.45% of the N.I. total. Statistical information with regards to the districts makeup and individuals therein was also reviewed.
• It is also clear that the majority of our borough is rural in composition and therefore the specific needs of those individuals must be considered during screening. 40% of emissions are due to Agriculture and the population made up of rural areas in causeway coast and glens makes up 30.8% (Causeway-Coast-Glens-Area-Profile-2025.pdf).
• Borough wide the total amount of emissions for 2024 is 4089030 kgCO2e.
• Other councils have also published a strategy focusing on reducing emissions, biodiversity, fossil fuel consumption, energy management, waste reduction and recycling.

Religious Beliefs

The 2021 Census outlined:

Religion / religion brought up in

Roman Catholic CC&G: 40.12%
Roman Catholic NI: 45.70%

Protestant & Other Christian (including Christian related) CC&G: 51.17%
Protestant & Other Christian (including Christian related) NI: 43.48%

Other Religions CC&G: 0.78%
Other Religions NI: 1.50%

None/Not stated CC&G: 7.94%
None/Not stated NI: 9.32%



Staff breakdown by Religious Belief / Community Background (Figures as at 6 June 2024)

Roman Catholic: Male 140 (21%)
Roman Catholic: Female 127 (19%)

Protestant: Male 245 (36%)
Protestant: Female 132 (19%)

Non-Determined: Male 21 (3%)
Non-Determined: Female 17 (2%)

Total 682

In terms of religion or religion brought up in the 2021 Census indicates that our resident’s religious beliefs are comparable to those in Northern Ireland in that there are 2 predominant groupings ie Roman Catholic and Protestant. However, we also have an increasing number of individuals (7.94%) who do not practice a specific religion or who do not wish to be grouped into a specific religion. In addition, we have a small number of individuals who practice other religions.

No equality issues have been identified specific to this category; engagement will ensure balance participation across all religious or non-religious identities.

However, the consultation process will support the identification of any currently unidentified impacts.

Political Opinion

The Northern Ireland Life and Times Survey (2021) provides the following information on the political parties people in Northern Ireland feel closest to (this information is not available at local government level) :

DUP/Democratic Unionist Party 12%
Sinn Féin 13%
Ulster Unionist Party (UUP) 13%
Social Democratic and Labour Party (SDLP) 13%
Alliance Party 19%
Green Party 5%
Other Party 4%
None of these 11%
Other answer 1%
Don't know 9%

No specific equality concerns have been found for this category. The consultation will make sure people from both political and non-political backgrounds can take part fairly. This process will support the identification of any currently unidentified impacts.

Racial Group

On Census Day 21 March 2021 the resident population was:

Census 2021 CC&G Borough Council Northern Ireland
White CC&G: 98.55%
White NI: 96.55%

Irish Traveller CC&G: 0.03%
Irish Traveller NI: 0.14%

Roma CC&G: 0.01%
Roma NI: 0.08%

Indian CC&G: 0.15%
Indian NI: 0.52%

Chinese CC&G: 0.22%
Chinese NI: 0.50%

Filipino CC&G: 0.10%
Filipino NI: 0.23%

Pakistani CC&G: 0.03%
Pakistani NI: 0.08%

Arab CC&G: 0.03%
Arab CNI: 0.10%

Other Asian CC&G: 0.10%
Other Asian NI: 0.28%

Black African CC&G: 0.12%
Black African NI: 0.42%

Black Other CC&G: 0.04%
Black Other NI: 0.16%

Mixed CC&G: 0.51%
Mixed NI: 0.76%

Other ethnicities CC&G: 0.11%
Other ethnicities NI: 0.19%

The 2021 Census detailed 98.55% of our population is white, with 1.45% from an ethnic background. The largest minority ethnic groups in Causeway Coast and Glens are the Chinese (0.22%), Indian (0.15%) and Filipino (0.10%). The proportion of ethnic groups from a non-white background has increased in Causeway Coast and Glens over the last 10 years by 0.95% slightly increasing the diversity in our population.

Table MS-A16: Census 2021 - Country of Birth (basic detail) figures for CC&G Borough Council:

Europe: United Kingdom: Northern Ireland 127,171
Europe: United Kingdom: England 5,991
Europe: United Kingdom: Scotland 1,556
Europe: United Kingdom: Wales 234
Europe: Republic of Ireland 1,931
Europe: Other EU countries 2,733
Europe: Other non-EU countries 149
Africa 384
Middle East and Asia 825
North America, Central America and Caribbean 499
South America 55
Antarctica, Oceania and Other 219

Number of people born outside UK/Ireland in CC&G Borough Council for the years 2011 and 2021 (Census 2021):

2011: 4,100
2021: 4,900

Of the total population in Causeway Coast and Glens 3.45% of our residents were born outside the UK/Ireland as demonstrated in the table above this is an increase over the last 10 years of 0.56%.

Census 2021 - National identity (person based) figures for CC&G Borough Council:

British only 38%
Irish only 22%
Northern Irish only 23%
British & Irish only <1%
British & Northern Irish only 9%
Irish & Northern Irish only 2%
British, Irish & Northern Irish only 1%
Other national identities 5%

Census 2021 - Main Language figures for CC&G Borough
Council:

English 98%
Other languages 2%

Although our population is becoming more diverse 97.8% speak English as their main language. The other main languages spoken are Polish, Irish and Portuguese closely followed by Arabic, Bulgarian, Chinese and Cantonese.

Census 2021 MS-B12a All usual residents aged 3 and over Main Language (Count) figures for CC&G Borough Council

English 134,147 (97.80%)
Polish 1,524 (1.11%)
Lithuanian 49 (0.04%)
Irish 231 (0.17%)
Romanian 79 (0.06%)
Portuguese 39 (0.03%)
Arabic 63 (0.05%)
Bulgarian 66 (0.05%)
Chinese (not otherwise specified) 68 (0.05%)
Slovak 32 (0.02%)
Hungarian 18 (0.01%)
Spanish 50 (0.04%)
Latvian 36 (0.03%)
Russian 29 (0.02%)
Tetun 6 (0.00%)
Malayalam 24 (0.02%)
Tagalog/Filipino 46 (0.03%)
Cantonese 69 (0.05%)
Other languages 584 (0.43%)
All Residents 137,160

It is important to note that while other family members may be able to support translation, 1.30% or 750 households do not speak English as their main language and therefore would require translation services.

Census 2021 table MS-B11a - Household language (Count) figures for CC&G Borough Council

All people aged 16+ years have English as a main language: 56,063 (97.37%)

At least one but not all people aged 16+ years have English as a main language: 600 (1.04%)

No people aged 16+ years have English as a main language, but at least one person aged 3-15 years has English as a main language: 163 (0.28%)

No people have English as a main language: 750 (1.30%)

Total: 57,576

Census 2021 - Knowledge of Irish figures for CC&G Borough Council

No ability in Irish 90%
Some ability in Irish 10%

Census 2021 - Knowledge of Ulster-Scots figures for CC&G Borough Council

No ability in Ulster-Scots 81%
Some ability in Ulster-Scots 19%

Staff breakdown by Racial Group / Ethnic Origin (Figures as at 6 June 2024)

Other: 2 (0.29%)

White / White European: 628 (92.08%)

Unknown: 52 (7.63%)

Total: 682

Inclusive outreach is planned for all materials, to mitigate potential communication/cultural barriers which ethic minority groups may face.

The consultation process will support the identification of any currently unidentified impacts.

Age

Age: (NISRA Census 2021 – Table MS-A02)

0-4 years CC&G: 7,973 (5.62%)
0-4 years NI: 113,820 (5.98%)

5-9 years CC&G: 8,878 (6.26%)
5-9 years NI: 124,475 (6.54%)

10-14 years CC&G: 9,113 (6.43%)
10-14 years NI: 126,918 (6.67%)

15-19 years CC&G: 8,326 (5.87%)
15-19 years NI: 113,203 (5.95%)

20-24 years CC&G: 7,873 (5.55%)
20-24 years NI: 111,386 (5.85%)

25-29 years CC&G: 7,713 (5.44%)
25-29 years NI: 116,409 (6.12%)

30-34 years CC&G: 8,460 (5.97%)
30-34 years NI: 126,050 (6.62%)

35-39 years CC&G: 8,528 (6.02%)
35-39 years NI: 127,313 (6.69%)

40-44 years CC&G: 8,513 (6.01%)
40-44 years NI: 122,163 (6.42%)

45-49 years CC&G: 9,322 (6.58%)
45-49 years NI: 121,670 (6.39%)

50-54 years CC&G: 10,412 (7.35%)
50-54 years NI: 130,967 (6.88%)

55-59 years CC&G: 10,150 (7.16%)
55-59 years NI: 129,276 (6.79%)

60-64 years CC&G: 9,171 (6.47%)
60-64 years NI: 113,049 (5.94%)

65-69 years CC&G: 7,769 (5.48%)
65-69 years NI: 93,464 (4.91%)

70-74 years CC&G: 6,990 (4.93%)
70-74 years NI: 83,467 (4.39%)

75-79 years CC&G: 5,659 (3.99%)
75-79 years NI: 66,377 (3.49%)

80-84 years CC&G: 3,718 (2.62%)
80-84 years NI: 43,776 (2.30%)

85-89 years CC&G: 2,126 (1.50%)
85-89 years NI: 25,879 (1.36%)

90+ years CC&G: 1,051 (0.74%)
90+ years NI: 13,512 (0.71%)

TOTAL Population CC&G: 141,745
TOTAL Population NI: 1,903,174

Statistics in the table above highlight an ageing population.

Census 2021, Age Comparison for CC&G Borough Council for the years 2011 and 2021

0-14
2011: 19%
2021: 18%

15-39
2011: 33%
2021: 29%

40-64
2011: 33%
2021: 34%

65+
2011: 15%
2021: 19%

It can be seen from the 2 tables above, that in the 44 and under groupings our borough statistics have decreased and are lower than the Northern Ireland average. Whereas the number of individuals aged 45 years and upwards has increased and our percentages in these groupings are higher than the Northern Ireland Average.

This is a trend which is forecast to continue as identified in NISRA’s 2020-based Interim Population Projections for Northern Ireland, which states that "by mid-2027, the number of people aged 65 and over is projected to overtake the number of children" .


Staff breakdown by Age (Figures as at 6 June 2024)

18-21: 2 (0.3%)
22-29: 21 (3.1%)
30-34: 39 (5.7%)
35-39: 67 (9.8%)
40-44: 84 (12.3%)
45-49: 83 (12.2%)
50-54: 139 (20.4%)
55-59: 112 (16.4%)
60-64: 94 (13.8%)
65-120: 41 (6.0%)
Total: 682

We recognise that climate change and our response to it can impact different age groups in varied and significant ways. Our climate Emergency Strategy aims to be inclusive across all ages, recognising the specific needs, vulnerabilities, and communication preferences of different generations.

Key considerations:
Older people: particularly those over 65 and those living in rural areas, may be more vulnerable to extreme weather events such as heatwaves and flooding. Health conditions, mobility challenges, and potential social isolation increase their risk. We will consider additional support mechanisms during adverse weather conditions, and ensure accessible formats (e.g. printed materials, local community centres, libraries are available for those less likely to access digital content).

Younger people: especially children and adolescents, are disproportionately affected by climate-related health issues such as air pollution and heat stress. They may also experience eco-anxiety and disruption to education. We aim to engage with schools; youth groups and community organisations to ensure their concerns are included and acted upon.

We will adopt a multi-format approach looking at digital, print, and in person to ensure that people of all ages can access and engage with our strategy. Formats will include online content, printed newsletters, information sessions, and partnership with trusted community venues.

The consultation process will support the identification of any currently unidentified impacts.

Marital Status

Marital status by former legacy Council area (most recent figures available from Census 2021):

Single (never married or never registered a civil partnership)
CC&G Borough Council: 40,720 (35.67%)
Northern Ireland: 576,708 (38.07%)

Married
CC&G Borough Council: 54,576 (47.81%)
Northern Ireland: 690,509 (45.59%)

In a civil partnership
CC&G Borough Council: 155 (0.14%)
Northern Ireland: 2,742 (0.18%)

Separated (but still legally married or still legally in a civil partnership)
CC&G Borough Council: 3,795 (3.32%)
Northern Ireland: 57,272 (3.78%)

Divorced or formerly in a civil partnership which is now legally dissolved
CC&G Borough Council: 7,258 (6.36%)
Northern Ireland: 91,128 (6.02%)

Widowed or surviving partner from a civil partnership
CC&G Borough Council: 7,655 (6.71%)
Northern Ireland: 96,384 (6.36%)

All usual residents aged 16 and over
CC&G Borough Council: 114,159
Northern Ireland: 1,514,743

Causeway Coast and Glens follows a similar pattern to that of Northern Ireland in that the highest percentage of residents are married (47.81% compared with the NI average of 45.59%). The patterns are all higher than the NI average with the exception of Individuals in a civil partnership which at 0.14% is slightly lower than the NI average of 0.18%.

Same-sex marriage in Northern Ireland has been legal since 13 January 2020. (Northern Ireland (Executive Formation etc) Act 2019)


Staff breakdown by Marital Status (Figures as at 6 June 2024)

Unknown: 55 (8.06%)
Civil Partnership: 4 (0.59%)
Divorced: 17 (2.49%)
Married: 391 (57.33%)
Other: 25 (3.67%)
Separated: 14 (2.05%)
Single: 172 (25.22%)
Widowed: 4 (0.59%)
Total: 682

Key Considerations:

Single parent households may experience increased vulnerability during extreme weather events, and face additional burdens such as higher energy costs, loss of school meal access during closures or reduced availability of childcare. Our strategy will aim to consider these pressures and provide support mechanisms where possible.

The consultation process will support the identification of any currently unidentified impacts.

Sexual Orientation

The 2021 census for the first time included a question on sexual orientation. MS-C01.

Straight or heterosexual
CC&G Borough Council: 104,205 (91.28%)
Northern Ireland: 1,363,859 (90.04%)

Gay or lesbian
CC&G Borough Council: 906 (0.79%)
Northern Ireland: 17,713 (1.17%)

Bisexual
CC&G Borough Council: 596 (0.52%)
Northern Ireland: 11,306 (0.75%)

Other sexual orientation
CC&G Borough Council: 135 (0.12%)
Northern Ireland: 2,597 (0.17%)

Prefer not to say
CC&G Borough Council: 4,502 (3.94%)
Northern Ireland: 69,307 (4.58%)

Not stated
CC&G Borough Council: 3,816 (3.34%)
Northern Ireland: 49,961 (3.30%)

All usual residents aged 16 and over
CC&G Borough Council: 114,160
Northern Ireland: 1,514,743

Sexual orientation by broad age bands MS-C02: Census 2021

All usual residents aged 16 and over
CC&G Borough Council: 114,158
Northern Ireland: 1,514,745

Straight or heterosexual
CC&G Borough Council: 104,203 (91.28%)
Northern Ireland: 1,363,859 (90.04%)

Gay, lesbian, bisexual, other sexual orientation
CC&G Borough Council: 1,637 (1.43%)
Northern Ireland: 31,617 (2.09%)

Prefer not to say/ Not stated
CC&G Borough Council: 8,318 (7.29%)
Northern Ireland: 119,269 (7.87%)

Usual residents aged 16-24 years
CC&G Borough Council: 14,576
Northern Ireland: 201,369

Straight or heterosexual
CC&G Borough Council: 13,099 (89.87%)
Northern Ireland: 175,346 (87.08%)

Gay, lesbian, bisexual, other sexual orientation
CC&G Borough Council: 517 (3.55%)
Northern Ireland: 9,283 (4.61%)

Prefer not to say/ Not stated
CC&G Borough Council: 960 (6.59%)
Northern Ireland: 16,740 (8.31%)

Usual residents aged 25-39 years
CC&G Borough Council: 24,700
Northern Ireland: 369,770

Straight or heterosexual
CC&G Borough Council: 22,732 (92.03%)
Northern Ireland: 330,734 (89.44%)

Gay, lesbian, bisexual, other sexual orientation
CC&G Borough Council: 649 (2.63%)
Northern Ireland: 13,991 (3.78%)

Prefer not to say/ Not stated
CC&G Borough Council: 1,319 (5.34%)
Northern Ireland: 25,045 (6.77%)

Usual residents aged 40-64 years
CC&G Borough Council: 47,568
Northern Ireland: 617,126

Straight or heterosexual
CC&G Borough Council: 44,419 (93.38%)
Northern Ireland: 571,502 (92.61%)

Gay, lesbian, bisexual, other sexual orientation
CC&G Borough Council: 419 (0.88%)
Northern Ireland: 7,459 (1.21%)

Prefer not to say/ Not stated
CC&G Borough Council: 2,730 (5.74%)
Northern Ireland: 38,165 (6.18%)

Usual residents aged 65+ years
CC&G Borough Council: 27,314
Northern Ireland: 326,480

Straight or heterosexual
CC&G Borough Council: 23,953 (87.69%)
Northern Ireland: 286,277 (87.69%)

Gay, lesbian, bisexual, other sexual orientation
CC&G Borough Council: 52 (0.19%)
Northern Ireland: 884 (0.27%)

Prefer not to say/ Not stated
CC&G Borough Council: 3,309 (12.11%)
Northern Ireland: 39,319 (12.04%)

The council currently has no data specific to its workforce.

Key Considerations:

Inclusive community spaces. There are no known equality issues that have been identified specific to this category; engagement will ensure balanced participation across all sexual orientation.

The consultation process will support the identification of any currently unidentified impacts.

Men and Women Generally

(Census 2021 – Table MS-A07)

Male
CC&G Borough Council: 69,848 (49.28%)
Northern Ireland: 936,132 (49.19%)

Female
CC&G Borough Council: 71,898 (50.72%)
Northern Ireland: 967,043 (50.81%)



Staff breakdown by Gender (Figures as at 6 June 2024)

Male: 406 (59.53%)
Female: 276 (40.47%)
Total: 682

Key considerations:

Women are more likely to have unpaid or part time caring responsibilities, which may limit their ability to attend public consultations or access support services. They may also face greater financial pressure from rising energy costs. Food insecurity, and disruptions to services such as school meals or healthcare access. We will ensure flexible engagement options and consider how climate actions may affect households with caring duties.

Men are more likely to work in sectors such as agriculture, fisheries and construction which are highly vulnerable to climate-related impacts such as drought, flooding and extreme weather. We will seek to engage with these sectors to understand and support climate adaptation strategies that are relevant to their needs.

We are designing this strategy to include all genders equally.

The consultation process will support the identification of any currently unidentified impacts.

Dependants

In Causeway Coast and Glens 28% of households include dependent children, compared with the NI average of 29.21%.

MS-A24: Census, Number of dependent children - households

All households
CC&G Borough Council: 57,577
Northern Ireland: 768,809

No children in household
CC&G Borough Council: 31,968 (55.52%)
Northern Ireland: 423,956 (55.14%)

No dependent children in household/All children in household non-dependent
CC&G Borough Council: 9,490 (16.48%)
Northern Ireland: 120,314 (15.65%)

One dependent child aged 0-4
CC&G Borough Council: 1,816 (3.15%)
Northern Ireland: 27,233 (3.54%)

One dependent child aged 5-11
CC&G Borough Council: 1,470 (2.55%)
Northern Ireland: 21,123 (2.75%)

One dependent child aged 12-18
CC&G Borough Council: 2,919 (5.07%)
Northern Ireland: 39,203 (5.10%)

Two dependent children, youngest aged 0-4
CC&G Borough Council: 2,293 (3.98%)
Northern Ireland: 32,598 (4.24%)

Two dependent children, youngest aged 5-11
CC&G Borough Council: 2,635 (4.58%)
Northern Ireland: 36,534 (4.75%)

Two dependent children, youngest aged 12-18
CC&G Borough Council: 1,398 (2.43%)
Northern Ireland: 18,532 (2.41%)

Three or more dependent children, youngest aged 0-4
CC&G Borough Council: 1,773 (3.08%)
Northern Ireland: 24,120 (3.14%)

Three or more dependent children, youngest aged 5-11
CC&G Borough Council: 1,562 (2.71%)
Northern Ireland: 21,677 (2.82%)

Three or more dependent children, youngest aged 12-18
CC&G Borough Council: 253 (0.44%)
Northern Ireland: 3,519 (0.46%)

In Causeway Coast and Glens 9.61% of households comprise of a lone parent and a dependent child or children, compared with the NI average of 10.58%.

Household composition - usual residents MS-A25: Census 2021

All usual residents in households
CC&G Borough Council: 139,799
Northern Ireland: 1,876,838

One person household: Aged 66 and over
CC&G Borough Council: 7,426 (5.31%)
Northern Ireland: 91,673 (4.88%)

One person household: Other
CC&G Borough Council: 9,822 (7.03%)
Northern Ireland: 142,975 (7.62%)

Single family household: All aged 66 and over
CC&G Borough Council: 10,442 (7.47%)
Northern Ireland: 121,824 (6.49%)

Single family household: Married or civil partnership couple: No children
CC&G Borough Council: 12,076 (8.64%)
Northern Ireland: 142,437 (7.59%)

Single family household: Married or civil partnership couple: One
dependent child
CC&G Borough Council: 10,494 (7.51%)
Northern Ireland: 147,784 (7.87%)

Single family household: Married or civil partnership couple: Two or more dependent children
CC&G Borough Council: 29,298 (20.96%)
Northern Ireland: 399,722 (21.30%)

Single family household: Married or civil partnership couple: All children non-dependent
CC&G Borough Council: 17,704 (12.66%)
Northern Ireland: 215,685 (11.49%)

Single family household: Cohabiting couple family: No children
CC&G Borough Council: 3,724 (2.66%)
Northern Ireland: 60,486 (3.22%)

Single family household: Cohabiting couple family: One dependent child
CC&G Borough Council: 2,614 (1.87%)
Northern Ireland: 34,334 (1.83%)

Single family household: Cohabiting couple family: Two or
more dependent children
CC&G Borough Council: 4,378 (3.13%)
Northern Ireland: 50,630 (2.70%)

Single family household: Cohabiting couple family: All children non-dependent
CC&G Borough Council: 910 (0.65%)
Northern Ireland: 10,869 (0.58%)

Single family household: Lone parent family (female): One dependent child
CC&G Borough Council: 4,356 (3.12%)
Northern Ireland: 63,191 (3.37%)

Single family household: Lone parent family (female):Two or more dependent children
CC&G Borough Council: 8,309 (5.94%)
Northern Ireland: 123,438 (6.58%)

Single family household: Lone parent family (female): All children non-dependent
CC&G Borough Council: 5,668 (4.05%)
Northern Ireland: 78,411 (4.18%)

Single family household: Lone parent family (male): One dependent child
CC&G Borough Council: 461 (0.33%)
Northern Ireland: 6,520 (0.35%)

Single family household: Lone parent family (male): Two or more
dependent children
CC&G Borough Council: 304 (0.22%)
Northern Ireland: 5,186 (0.28%)

Single family household: Lone parent family (male): All children non-dependent
CC&G Borough Council: 1,667 (1.19%)
Northern Ireland: 22,558 (1.20%)

Single family household: Other family composition
CC&G Borough Council: 1,503 (1.08%)
Northern Ireland: 21,409 (1.14%)

Other household types: One dependent child
CC&G Borough Council: 750 (0.54%)
Northern Ireland: 10,734 (0.57%)

Other household types: Two or more dependent children
CC&G Borough Council: 901 (0.64%)
Northern Ireland: 15,829 (0.84%)

Other household types: All in full-time education
CC&G Borough Council: 663 (0.47%)
Northern Ireland: 7,191 (0.38%)

Other household types: All aged 66 and over
CC&G Borough Council: 144 (0.10%)
Northern Ireland: 1,712 (0.09%)

Other household types: Other family composition
CC&G Borough Council: 6,185 (4.42%)
Northern Ireland: 102,240 (5.45%)

At the time of the Census, 12.32% of people stated that they provided unpaid care to family, friends, neighbours or others; this is slightly lower than the NI average of 12.42%.

Provision of unpaid care by broad age bands MS-D17: Census 2021

Northern Ireland All usual residents aged 5 and over
CC&G Borough Council: 133,773
Northern Ireland: 1,789,348

Provides no unpaid care
CC&G Borough Council: 117,786 (88.05%)
Northern Ireland: 1,567,135 (87.58%)

Provides 1-19 hours unpaid care per week
CC&G Borough Council: 7,073 (5.29%)
Northern Ireland: 100,777 (5.63%)

Provides 20-34 hours unpaid care per week
CC&G Borough Council: 1,695 (1.27%)
Northern Ireland: 24,636 (1.38%)

Provides 35-49 hours unpaid care per week
CC&G Borough Council: 2,055 (1.54%)
Northern Ireland: 28,109 (1.57%)

Provides 50+ hours unpaid care per week
CC&G Borough Council: 5,164 (3.86%)
Northern Ireland: 68,691 (3.84%)

All usual residents aged 5-14 years
CC&G Borough Council: 17,991
Northern Ireland: 251,394

Provides no unpaid care
CC&G Borough Council: 17,793 (98.90%)
Northern Ireland: 248,806 (98.97%)

Provides 1-19 hours unpaid care per week
CC&G Borough Council: 153 (0.85%)
Northern Ireland: 1,932 (0.77%)

Provides 20-34 hours unpaid care per week
CC&G Borough Council: 17 (0.09%)
Northern Ireland: 228 (0.09%)

Provides 35-49 hours unpaid care per week
CC&G Borough Council: 5 (0.03%)
Northern Ireland: 112 (0.04%)

Provides 50+ hours unpaid care per week
CC&G Borough Council: 23 (0.13%)
Northern Ireland: 316 (0.13%)

All usual residents aged 15-39 years
CC&G Borough Council: 40,900
Northern Ireland: 594,357

Provides no unpaid care
CC&G Borough Council: 37,210 (90.98%)
Northern Ireland: 538,184 (90.55%)

Provides 1-19 hours unpaid care per week
CC&G Borough Council: 1,685 (4.12%)
Northern Ireland: 25,983 (4.37%)

Provides 20-34 hours unpaid care per week
CC&G Borough Council: 446 (1.09%)
Northern Ireland: 6,909 (1.16%)

Provides 35-49 hours unpaid care per week
CC&G Borough Council: 724 (1.77%)
Northern Ireland: 10,462 (1.76%)

Provides 50+ hours unpaid care per week
CC&G Borough Council: 835 (2.04%)
Northern Ireland: 12,819 (2.16%)

All usual residents aged 40-64 years
CC&G Borough Council: 47,568
Northern Ireland: 617,125

Provides no unpaid care
CC&G Borough Council: 38,488 (80.91%)
Northern Ireland: 492,536 (79.81%)

Provides 1-19 hours unpaid care per week
CC&G Borough Council: 4,376 (9.20%)
Northern Ireland: 61,618 (9.98%)

Provides 20-34 hours unpaid care per week
CC&G Borough Council: 976 (2.05%)
Northern Ireland: 13,797 (2.24%)

Provides 35-49 hours unpaid care per week
CC&G Borough Council: 1,103 (2.32%)
Northern Ireland: 14,541 (2.36%)

Provides 50+ hours unpaid care per week
CC&G Borough Council: 2,625 (5.52%)
Northern Ireland: 34,633 (5.61%)

All usual residents aged 65+ years
CC&G Borough Council: 27,314
Northern Ireland: 326,472

Provides no unpaid care
CC&G Borough Council: 24,295 (88.95%)
Northern Ireland: 287,609 (88.10%)

Provides 1-19 hours unpaid care per week
CC&G Borough Council: 859 (3.14%)
Northern Ireland: 11,244 (3.44%)

Provides 20-34 hours unpaid care per week
CC&G Borough Council: 256 (0.94%)
Northern Ireland: 3,702 (1.13%)

Provides 35-49 hours unpaid care per week
CC&G Borough Council: 223 (0.82%)
Northern Ireland: 2,994 (0.92%)

Provides 50+ hours unpaid care per week
CC&G Borough Council: 1,681 (6.15%)
Northern Ireland: 20,923 (6.41%)

Staff Family Status (Figures as at 6 June 2024)

Unknown: 260 (38.12%)
Adults(s): 10 (1.47%)
Child/Children: 215 (31.52%)
None: 197 (28.89%)
Total: 682

Key considerations:

Recognises that individuals with dependants, such as children, elderly relatives, or others requiring care. This may face unique challenges in both adapting to climate change and participating in climate related action.

Households with dependants, including single-parent families, may experience increased pressure in terms of energy use, transport requirements, and access to community services. Rising energy costs, disruption to school services, and extreme weather events may significantly increase the financial and emotional burden on these households.

Access to support services such as food banks, community kitchens and childcare may become increasingly important as climate impact intensify.

The consultation process will support the identification of any currently unidentified impacts.

Disability

The Census 2021 showed that 35.95% of our residents has a long-Term health condition or illness which limits their daily activities or the work they can do, which is slightly higher than the NI average of 34.67%.

Number of long-term health conditions, MS-D04: Census 2021

All usual residents
CC&G Borough Council: 141,746
Northern Ireland: 1,903,176

Does not have a long-term health condition
CC&G Borough Council: 90,793 (64.05%)
Northern Ireland: 1,243,371 (65.33%)

1 long-term health condition
CC&G Borough Council: 26,690 (18.83%)
Northern Ireland: 344,687 (18.11%)

2 long-term health conditions
CC&G Borough Council: 12,121 (8.55%)
Northern Ireland: 151,512 (7.96%)

3 long-term health conditions
CC&G Borough Council: 6,220 (4.39%)
Northern Ireland: 81,075 (4.26%)

4 long-term health conditions
CC&G Borough Council: 3,440 (2.43%)
Northern Ireland: 46,166 (2.43%)

5 or more long-term health conditions
CC&G Borough Council: 2,482 (1.75%)
Northern Ireland: 36,365 (1.91%)

In our borough long-term pain or discomfort affects the most individuals, followed by mobility or dexterity that limits physical activities.

Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council Long-term Condition
Deafness or partial hearing loss: 8,914 (6.29%)
Blindness or partial sight: 2,560 (1.81%)
Mobility or dexterity that requires the use of a wheelchair: 2,145 (1.51%)
Mobility or dexterity that limits physical activities: 15,951 (11.25%)
Intellectual or learning disability: 1,340 (0.95%)
Intellectual or learning difficulty: 4,334 (3.06%)
Autism or Asperger syndrome: 2,282 (1.61%)
An emotional, psychological or mental health condition: 11,787 (8.32%)
Frequent periods of confusion or memory loss: 2,681 (1.89%)
Long term pain or discomfort: 17,396 (12.27%)
Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing: 14,525 (10.25%)
Other condition: 13,214 (9.32%)
Source: NISRA, Census 2021, tables MS-D03, MS-D04 through to
MS-D16

Staff breakdown by Disability (Figures as at 6 June 2024)

No: 670 (98.24%)
Yes: 12 (1.76%)
Total: 682

Key considerations:

The Climate Emergency Strategy recognises that people with disabilities may experience heightened risks and barriers in relation to climate change impacts, emergency preparedness, and access to information or services. We are committed to ensuring that our strategy is inclusive, accessible, and responsive to the diverse needs of disabled individuals across the borough.

People with disabilities may be at greater risk during extreme weather events, for example, being unable to leave their homes if snowed in, or struggling to access essential services such as hospitals, pharmacies, or care facilities.

All public facing information and engagement materials will be made available in accessible formats. The consultation process will support the identification of any currently unidentified impacts.

Screening Questions 1

1. What is the likely impact on equality of opportunity for those affected by this function, service, policy, procedure, project, strategy, plan or guidance?

Section 75 Category - Positive impact (it could benefit), Neutral or Negative impact (it could disadvantage).


Gender
Women, Men, Transgender men/women, Other: Potential positive - negative impact on this section. Different genders may be affected differently depending on roles, responsibilities, or health vulnerabilities (e.g., women disproportionately impacted by heatwaves or caring responsibilities during extreme weather). Positive impacts may arise from support for single parents in the event of an emergency or inclusive mitigation/ adaptation measures. However negative impacts may occur if these are not implemented.

The consultation process will help identify any impacts not yet apparent.

Race
The categories used in the Race section are those used in the 2011 census. Consideration should be given to the needs of specific communities within the broad categories.

Asian, ​Black, Chinese, Mixed race, Other: Minority ethnic groups may experience disproportionate impacts due to socio-economic factors or living conditions. Targeted engagement ensures inclusivity in adaptation measures and communications. The consultation process will be supported by translation features on our website or a translated hard copy upon request and will help identify any impacts not yet apparent.

Disability
Long term health impairment could include mental health problems, asthma, heart conditions, chronic fatigue etc.

Potential positive - negative impact on this section.

People with physical, sensory, or cognitive impairments may face higher risks during climate events or in adapting to low-carbon initiatives.

The consultation process will help identify any impacts not yet apparent

Sexual orientation Heterosexual, lesbian, gay men, bisexual, others

The strategy is unlikely to directly impact this section 75 group in isolation unless part of a person’s multiple identity. However, an inclusive consultation will ensure all community members’ perspectives are considered.

The consultation process will help identify any impacts not yet apparent.

Age Older People / Younger people and children

Older and younger people may be more vulnerable to climate-related risks (heat, flooding, air quality). Therefore, the inclusion of elements in the strategy to address resilience, accessibility, and awareness can improve equality of opportunity.

The consultation process will help identify any impacts not yet apparent.

The strategy is unlikely to directly impact this section 75 group in isolation unless part of a person’s multiple identity. However, an inclusive consultation will ensure all community members’ perspectives are considered.

The consultation process will help identify any impacts not yet apparent.

Religious Belief

The strategy is unlikely to directly impact this section 75 group in isolation unless part of a person’s multiple identity. However, an inclusive consultation will ensure all community members’ perspectives are considered.

The consultation process will help identify any impacts not yet apparent.

Martial Status

The strategy is unlikely to directly impact this section 75 group in isolation unless part of a person’s multiple identity.

The strategy will consider support for households of varying structures.

The consultation process will help identify any impacts not yet apparent.

Dependants

Those with caring responsibilities may be disproportionately affected during climate events or when adapting to energy-saving initiatives. The strategy will seek to address this by considering flexibility and support measures. However, it is recognised that the ability to mitigate negative impacts may also depend on an individual’s financial circumstances.

The consultation process will help identify any impacts not yet apparent.

Screening Questions 2

2. Are there opportunities to better promote equality of opportunity for people within any of the Section 75 categories?

Gender (Women, Men, Transgender men/women, Other please specify).

Yes. Ensuring that both men and women are equally represented in consultation and decision-making on climate adaptation and resilience planning. Promoting women’s involvement in green jobs via our Climate Change Officer and leadership roles can also address underrepresentation.

Ensuring that consultation materials, communications, and services are inclusive and respectful of gender identity will also help promote equal opportunity for participation.

Yes. Targeted engagement with minority ethnic communities ensures that language, cultural needs, and socio-economic circumstances are addressed in resilience planning and awareness-raising.

Disability Long term health impairment could include mental health problems, asthma, heart conditions, chronic fatigue etc.

Yes. Ensuring physical and communication accessibility in climate-related consultations and adaptation plans promotes equal participation. Inclusive design (e.g., accessible evacuation routes, easy-read materials) supports resilience.

Sexual orientation Heterosexual, lesbian, gay men, bisexual, others.

Age Older People, Younger people and children.

Yes. Tailoring awareness campaigns for young people (schools, youth groups) and older people (community groups, healthcare partners) can help each age group understand climate risks and opportunities for involvement.

Political Opinion.

Yes. Climate change engagement and cross-party support from all Elected Members can encourage cross-community ownership of climate goals.

Religious Belief.

Yes. Climate change engagement and cross-party support from all Elected can encourage cross-community ownership of climate goals.

Marital Status.

Yes. The strategy design can recognise diverse household structures, ensuring fair access to support schemes and adaptation measures regardless of family status.

Dependants.

Yes. Providing flexible consultation methods (e.g., online options, varied timings) and considering the needs of carers in adaptation planning ensures participation and fair benefit from climate actions.

Screening Questions 3

3. To what extent is the policy likely to impact on good relations between people of different religious belief, political opinion or racial group?

Section 75 Category: Religious Belief.
Level of impact: The strategy has the potential to positively impact good relations by ensuring that climate actions and awareness programmes are inclusive of all faith communities and respectful of cultural practices. Engaging with faith-based groups may strengthen shared ownership of climate action and encourage cooperation across traditions.

Section 75 Category: Political Opinion.
Level of impact: Climate change can be viewed through different political perspectives. A strategy that emphasises common goals such as protecting communities, supporting jobs, and safeguarding the environment, can help build consensus across political divides. Transparent engagement and balanced consultation will reduce risks of the strategy being perceived as politically biased.

Section 75 Category: Racial Group.
Level of impact: The strategy offers opportunities to improve good relations by actively involving minority ethnic groups in consultation, recognising the specific challenges some communities may face, and celebrating diversity in climate solutions. Inclusive participation helps foster mutual respect and shared responsibility.

Screening Questions 4

4. Are there opportunities to better promote good relations between people of different religious belief, political opinion or racial group?

Religious Belief: Yes. The strategy can encourage collaboration across faith groups by engaging them in awareness campaigns, community resilience planning, and sustainable initiatives (e.g., encouraging energy-saving in places of worship). This creates opportunities for shared learning and cross-community dialogue.

Political Opinion: Yes. By framing climate action around shared benefits such as community safety, economic growth, and environmental protection the strategy can foster cooperation across political perspectives. Inclusive consultation provides a neutral space where differing views can contribute to common solutions.

Racial Group: Yes. Climate initiatives can promote good relations by engaging minority ethnic communities in adaptation and awareness programmes, ensuring cultural needs are respected, and highlighting diverse contributions to sustainability. This can help build stronger connections between communities.

Additional Considerations.

Yes. We acknowledge that individuals do not exist within a single section 75 category but often belong to multiple groups that may overlap and compound experiences of exclusion, discrimination, or disadvantage. This is particularly important in the context of climate change, where vulnerability and resilience are shaped by complex, intersecting identities.

For example:

• Disabled minority ethnic people may face language or communication barriers on top of accessibility challenges during extreme weather events or adaptation schemes.

• Disabled women may experience additional barriers if caring responsibilities intersect with disability-related needs during climate-related disruptions.

• Young Protestant men or other groups at higher risk of unemployment may be disproportionately affected if green job opportunities are not promoted inclusively.

• Young lesbians, gay, bisexual or transgender people may face additional challenges if they experience social isolation, limiting their access to resilience-building community initiatives. LGBT+ individuals particularly trans and non-binary people, may feel unsafe or unwelcome in certain community spaces or may have been historically excluded from public consultation processes.

Mitigation and Opportunity:

By adopting an inclusive consultation process that recognises and values intersectional experiences, the strategy can ensure that people with multiple identities are not overlooked.

Climate actions and communications should be tailored to recognise different needs across these groups—for example, accessible formats, multilingual information, and targeted outreach to underrepresented communities.

This approach not only reduces the risk of compounded negative impacts but also creates opportunities to empower diverse groups to contribute to and benefit from climate action.

Provide details of data on the impact of the function, service, policy, procedure, project, strategy, plan or guidance on people with multiple identities.

Intersectional Data & Evidence

1. Disability

Disabled individuals face significantly higher risks during climate events; limited mobility, poverty, and barriers to services make them especially vulnerable.

Reference: "Analytical study on the promotion and protection of the rights of persons with disabilities in the context of climate change". Annual Report of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights and Reports of the Office of the High Commissioner and the Secretary-General. 44. Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights. 22 April 2020 – via UNDOCS.

The concept of eco-ableism highlights how environmental policies often exclude disabled people, especially those with intersecting identities like race, gender, or socio-economic status. This can amplify marginalisation during climate events. For example, an initiative to reduce the use of Plastic straws ( single-use plastics). Was shown to negatively impact on some individuals with disabilities who rely on plastic straws to safely consume liquids.

This demonstrates the importance of accessible planning and consultation to avoid the inclusion of unintended barriers.

Reference: Martinez, Gina (12.07.2018). "'Disabled People Are Not Part of the Conversation.' Advocates Speak Out Against Plastic Straw Bans". TIME.

2. Gender + Race

It has been noted that in developing countries, female-headed rural households lose disproportionately more income during climate impacts: 8% more to heat stress and 3% more to flooding compared to male-headed households, amounting to an estimated $53 billion in global losses.

Reference: The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2024/mar/05/financial-toll-climate-crisis-women-harder-un?

3. LGBTQ+ Communities + Climate Vulnerability

Men, women, and non-binary individuals in LGBTQ+ groups face elevated climate risk due to higher poverty and homelessness. They have greater exposure to heat-related illnesses and often face discriminatory barriers in disaster relief situations

Reference: Link: Extreme Heat Disproportionately Impacts LGBTQ+ Communities Nguyen, Melina (February 2, 2023).

4. Climate Displacement + Young People

Young climate-displaced individuals experience severe mental health consequences; PTSD, anxiety, and depression especially when compounded by factors such as ethnicity, refugee status, or economic hardship.

Reference Link: https://www.teenvogue.com/story/climate-refguees-face-devastating-mental-health-toll?

Mitigation measures will be included to overcome any identified barriers. The consultation process will support the identification of additional relevant mitigation.

Disability Considerations.

Is there an opportunity to better promote positive attitudes towards disabled people by altering this function, service, policy, procedure, project, strategy, plan or guidance?

Yes. The Climate Change Strategy can actively promote positive attitudes towards disabled people by:

Embedding accessibility into climate initiatives (e.g. ensuring emergency planning, transport adaptations, and information are inclusive of disabled people).

Challenging stereotypes by highlighting the valuable contributions disabled people can make to climate action and resilience planning.

Inclusive engagement: consulting directly with disabled people’s organisations to ensure their perspectives shape policy.

Awareness raising: using communication campaigns that normalise accessibility as central to effective climate action rather than an “add-on.”

By taking this approach, the strategy not only mitigates risks of exclusion but also helps foster respect, equality, and positive attitudes towards disabled people across wider society.

Is there an opportunity to encourage participation by disabled people in public life by altering this function, service, policy, procedure, project, strategy, plan or guidance?

Yes. The Climate Change Strategy provides opportunities to encourage disabled people’s participation in public life by:

Inclusive consultation: ensuring that disabled people’s organisations and individuals are invited to take part in climate planning and decision-making processes.

Accessible engagement: offering information in multiple formats (e.g. Easy Read, Braille, captioned video, sign language interpretation) so disabled people can contribute fully.

Representation in advisory groups: encouraging disabled representatives to join climate action committees or community resilience forums.

Showcasing leadership: highlighting the role of disabled people in shaping sustainable solutions, which promotes visibility and normalises participation in public life.

By embedding accessibility and representation, the strategy can help break down barriers to civic participation, ensuring disabled people are not only consulted but also visible as leaders and decision-makers in climate action.

Screening Decision.

Likely Impact: Minor.

If the decision is to subject the policy to an equality impact assessment (i.e. likely impact – Major), please provide details of the reasons for this:
N/A.

If the decision is not to conduct an equality impact assessment (i.e. likely impact = Minor) the Council should consider if the policy should be mitigated or an alternative policy be introduced:

The impacts identified do not demonstrate the need for a full EQIA, however a consultation process is planned to identify any currently unknown impacts and potential mitigation measures to overcome any barriers not yet identified.

If the decision is not to conduct an equality impact assessment (i.e. likely impact = None), please provide details of the reasons for this:
N/A.

Mitigation.

When the Council concludes that the likely impact is ‘Minor’ and an equality impact assessment is not to be conducted, the Council may consider mitigation to lessen the severity of any equality impact, or the introduction of an alternative policy to better promote equality of opportunity or good relations.

Can the policy/decision be amended or changed or an alternative policy introduced to better promote equality of opportunity and/or good relations?

Yes.

If YES, give the reasons to support your decision, together with the proposed changes/amendments or alternative policy:

The Climate Change Strategy can still be enhanced to better promote equality and good relations by:

Amending communication and engagement methods so they are more accessible (e.g. plain language, alternative formats, translation, and outreach to underrepresented groups).

Strengthening partnerships with community and voluntary organisations that represent Section 75 categories, ensuring their perspectives are embedded throughout implementation.

Promoting shared benefits of climate action such as cleaner air, active travel, and greener spaces as opportunities to bring people from different backgrounds together, supporting good relations.

While a full Equality Impact Assessment may not be required, small amendments or supplementary measures can reduce any residual barriers, foster inclusion, and actively promote both equality of opportunity and good relations.

Timetabling And Prioritising.

If the policy/decision has been ‘screened in’ for equality impact assessment, then please answer the following questions to determine its priority for timetabling the equality impact assessment.
On a scale of 1 to 3, with 1 being the lowest priority and 3 the highest, assess the policy in terms of its priority for equality impact assessment.

Priority Criterion Rating (1 to 3).
Effect on equality of opportunity and good relations N/A.
Social Need N/A.
Effect on people’s daily lives N/A.
Relevance to the Council’s functions N/A.

Monitoring.

Please outline proposals for future monitoring of the policy/decision:

There will there be a review after consulation and every 2 years as part of the normal council review process unless updates need to be changed.

Approval And Authorisation

Screened By: Climate Change Lead Officer, 28/09/2025

Approved By: Director of Environmental Services, 15/10/2025