Residents are being asked to help shape an equality, diversity, and inclusion strategy in St Albans.

The plan, which influences major policies and decisions made by St Albans City and District Council, is being updated to cover the next five years.

It is overseen by the Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Partnership, which includes representatives from the council, voluntary sector, community groups, schools, faith groups, and the police.

Residents can give their views on the strategy by responding to a short online survey, which will take around ten minutes to complete.

They will be asked what can be done to further improve equality, diversity, and inclusion across the district.

All feedback will be analysed and included in a report to the council’s Housing and Inclusion Committee on Wednesday, November 6.

The strategy sets out a vision and plans to ensure the district is an inclusive place where everyone can thrive.

It includes six pledges, including a commitment by the council to challenge racism and discrimination in whatever form it takes.

Councillor Sarwar Shamsher, lead for inclusion and equality, said: "We are committed to involving everyone in the work we do to improve the lives of our residents.

"To ensure that communities are not left out or left behind, we are updating our equality, diversity, and inclusion strategy.

"It will inform the council’s work, making sure our services are accessible to all and that we tackle issues such as digital exclusion.

"It is important that we hear as many voices as possible as we develop the strategy, so I urge everyone to take a few minutes to fill in the survey."

The deadline for completing the survey is Monday, September 23.

The survey can be accessed on the St Albans District Council website, via smartsurvey.co.uk/s/16JBFG.