S75 Equality And Good Relations Screening Form
This is a revised policy, procedure and strategy.
Operational Area: Biodiversity
Title: Council Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan
Brief Summary:
To deliver on our statutory duty to conserve biodiversity by embedding biodiversity within Council service delivery to support the restoration and maintenance of healthy, functioning ecosystems, benefiting both wildlife and the people who rely on these natural systems.
What is it trying to achieve? (intended aims and outcomes)
To set out council’s approach to conserve biodiversity across council estate and change the general approach to including biodiversity in service delivery.
It will do this through clear actions for relevant departments focussing on restoring, enhancing, protecting, improving biodiversity on our estate and connecting biodiversity and people.
It aims to aid council to meet the requirements of the Wildlife and Natural Environment Act (NI) 2011.
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.
Leisure and Development is the department responsible for coordination.
It is implemented by the Biodiversity Officer and relevant department staff across council.
Other policies etc. which have a bearing on this function, service, policy, procedure, project, strategy, plan or guidance?
Strategies:
- 2026-2031 Council Plan.
- Climate Change Action Strategy 2025-2032.
- Destination Management Strategy 2025-2035.
- Local Development Plan.
- Community Plan 2017-2030.
- Wildlife and Natural Environment Act (NI) 2011.
- All Ireland Pollinator Plan 2026-2030.
- Climate Change Act (NI) 2022.
- Northern Ireland Peatland Strategy 2022-2040.
- Environmental Improvement Plan 2024.
- Draft Nature Recovery Strategy.
Studies, Publications, Statistics and Guidance:
- Northern Ireland Statistics & Research Agency – Census 2021.
- Nature Positive 2030 report.
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 2024.
- 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 to be considered during screening.
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 (2024) 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 11
Sinn Féin 20
Ulster Unionist Party (UUP) 11
Social Democratic and Labour Party (SDLP) 10
Alliance Party 24
Green Party 4
Other Party 5
None of these 9
Don't know 8
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 the biodiversity crisis and our response to it can impact different age groups in varied and significant ways. Our Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan 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, with health conditions, mobility challenges, and potential social isolation increase their risk. We will ensure accessible formats (e.g. printed materials, local community centres, libraries are available for those less likely to access digital content). Where public participation is sought, we will endeavour to make events accessible where practical. We will also seek local knowledge and expertise.
Younger people: especially children and adolescents who are more vulnerable to biodiversity loss due to long term effects. They may also experience eco-anxiety. 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
No specific equality concerns have been found for this category.
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
(Gender: 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 responsibilites, which may limit their ability to attend public consultations or access support services. We will ensure flexible engagement opions.
Men are more likely to work in sectors such as agriculture and fisheries which are highly vulnerable to biodiversity loss related impacts such as decline of pollinating insects, decline of natural predators to pests and non-native invasive species. We will seek to engage with these sectors to understand and support biodiversity issues 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
No specific equality concerns have been found for this category.
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 Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan recognises that people with disability may experience heightened barriers to accessing green spaces; urban, rural and coastal. We are committed to ensuring that our strategy is inclusive, accessible and responsive to the diverse needs of disabled individuals across the Borough.
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 - minor negative impact on this section. Different genders may be affected differently depending on roles or responsibilities.
Positive impacts may arise from enhanced outdoor spaces and increases in biodiversity across the borough. Negative impacts may arise from changes in land use to enhance, restore or protect biodiversity.
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: Potential positive impact. 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 impact on this section. Improving biodiversity may lead to improved mental health and sensory experience of the outdoors. It may also lead to improving air quality which may positively impact people with respiratory conditions.
Sexual orientation Heterosexual, lesbian, gay men, bisexual, others.
Potential positive-neutral impact. 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
Potential positive impact. Older people may benefit from improved biodiversity from the enjoyment of their local outdoor spaces.
Younger people are more vulnerable to the impacts of biodiversity loss. Improving biodiversity across the borough will help safeguard the younger generation from the impacts of biodiversity loss.
The consultation process will help identify any impacts not yet apparent.
Political Opinion
Potential - neutral positive impact. 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
Potential - neutral positive impact. 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
Potential positive - neutral positive impact. The strategy is unlikely to directly impact this section 75 group in isolation unless part of a person’s multiple identity.
The consultation process will help identify any impacts not yet apparent.
Dependants
Potential positive impact. Those with caring responsibilities may experience improved mental health when experiencing enhanced outdoor spaces.
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 on biodiversity issues.
Ensuring that consultation materials, communications, and services are inclusive and respectful of gender identity will also help promote equal opportunity for participation.
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, White, Other please specify).
Yes. Targeted engagement with minority ethnic communities ensures that language, cultural needs, and socio-economic circumstances are addressed in 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 biodiversity-related consultations promotes equal participation. Inclusive design (e.g., accessible evacuation routes, easy-read materials) supports resilience.
Sexual orientation Heterosexual, lesbian, gay men, bisexual, others.
Yes. Inclusive communication and outreach can ensure LGBTQ+ individuals and groups feel represented and safe participating in biodiversity initiatives and consultation processes.
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 biodiversity issues and opportunities for involvement.
Political Opinion.
Yes. Engagement and cross-party support from all Elected Members can encourage cross-community ownership of biodiversity goals.
Religious Belief.
Yes. Engagement and cross-party support from all Elected Members can encourage cross-community ownership of biodiversity goals.
Marital Status.
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Dependants.
Yes. Providing flexible consultation methods (e.g., online options, varied timings) ensures participation and fair benefit from biodiversity 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 biodiversity 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 biodiversity and outdoor shared spaces and encourage cooperation across traditions.
Section 75 Category: Political Opinion.
Level of impact: Biodiversity issues can be viewed through different political perspectives. A strategy that emphasises common goals such as protecting our shared environment across the borough 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 biodiversity actions. 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 and community biodiversity improvement events. This creates opportunities for shared learning and cross-community dialogue.
Political Opinion: Yes. By framing biodiversity action around shared benefits such as community improvement 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. Biodiversity initiatives can promote good relations by engaging minority ethnic communities in improvement 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.
For example:
- Disabled minority ethnic people may face language or communication barriers on top of accessibility challenges to accessing natural spaces.
- Disabled women may experience additional barriers if caring responsibilities intersect with disability-related needs during biodiversity related events.
- 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 biodiversity enhancing 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.
Biodiversity 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 actions for biodiversity.
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
Disability encompasses a variety of challenges when it comes to accessing biodiversity. Individuals may face accessibility, sensory and confidence issues when engaging with outdoor natural spaces. This illustrates the importance of accessible planning and consultation to avoid the inclusion of unintended barriers.
Reference: “Included Outside: Engaging People Living with Disabilities in Nature” Natural England 2022.
2. Race & LGBTQ+ Communities
The conservation movement is historically white, straight and privileged with people of other races and sexual orientation and identity being marginalised. This demonstrates the need to be inclusive in the consultation process of all ethnicities and identities.
Reference links: https://www.nationalgeographic...
https://www.endangered.org/pri...
3. Young people
Young people will be disproportionately affected by biodiversity loss, directly endangering their fundamental rights to survival. Young people’s input will be sought during the consultation process.
Reference link: https://knowledge.unicef.org/C...
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 Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan can actively promote positive attitudes towards disabled people by:
Embedding accessibility into biodiversity initiatives.
Challenging stereotypes by highlighting the valuable contributions disabled people can make to biodiversity actions.
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 biodiversity 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.
Please give further information and examples:
The Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan 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 the consultation process.
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 biodiversity forums.
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 biodiversity 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 Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan 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 biodiversity action such as cleaner air 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 be a review period or every 2 years as part of the normal council review process unless updates need to be changed.
Approval And Authorisation
Screened By: Biodiversity and Habitat Management Officer, 28/05/2026
Approved By: Director of Leisure and Development, 03/07/2026