Why is candidate assessment important?

Selection as a candidate is crucial to becoming an elected representative. To achieve equal representation, it is important that parties remove barriers which may unfairly prevent underrepresented groups including LGBTI people, ethnic minority people, women and disabled people being put forward for selection. This means examining the process for candidate assessment.

Parties have a duty of care to those who put themselves forward as potential candidates and responsibilities under the Equality Act 2010 to ensure a fair and open process. Having more diverse parliaments and councils ensures the voices of protected groups are heard, improves policy making and positively impacts society. Having a candidate assessment process which values and enables candidates from a diverse range of backgrounds and experiences to succeed is a key way that parties can lead from the front in achieving equal representation and ensure they are attracting the best possible candidates.

The vetting process is an opportunity for parties to consider the characteristics and opinions they value in candidates and whether this helps or hinders equality and diversity. It is also an opportunity to work together to ensure all volunteers have the right training and support to help them run a process that enables equal access to elected office.

The actions below can help to carry out an assessment process which is accessible and supports equal representation.

 

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