Equality Delivery System (EDS)
The Equality Delivery System (EDS) is a framework that supports NHS organisations to make improvements on equality, diversity and inclusion for the benefit of their staff, patients and the communities they serve.
The EDS was created by NHS England in 2011 and the Trust has been using it since its introduction to improve performance for people with characteristics protected by the Equality Act 2010.
Protected characteristics | EHRC
In 2022, a new version of the EDS was developed. This new version has updated outcomes and requires NHS organisations to undertake the evidence collection and grading exercise annually, rather than every four years.
The Trust published its first report following the updated EDS in May 2023.
Further information about the EDS can be found on the NHS England website:
Equality Delivery System 2022 - NHS England
Reports
EDS Reports, including grading and action plans.
Equality Delivery System 2023-24 Report (pdf)
Equality Delivery System 2022-23 Report (pdf)
Get involved
As part of the EDS, we present evidence for grading to panels comprising patients and the public.
If you would like to be involved in a future EDS grading panel, please contact the Patient Experience Team.
Email: patient.experience@ouh.nhs.uk
Last reviewed:28 January 2025