22nd January 2026 Minutes
Fairness Commission – Public Meeting Minutes
Date: 22nd January 2026
Purpose: Agree priorities, structure, and direction for 2026
Overview
The Fairness Commission met to reflect on its first year and to agree a clearer structure, mandate, and priorities for 2026. The discussion focused on strengthening impact, improving representation, and ensuring the Commission is able to contribute earlier and more effectively to local decision-making.
Representation and Recruitment
The Commission agreed that future recruitment should prioritise lived experience and address identified gaps in representation. These include voices from rural communities, the Isles of Scilly, carers, care leavers, older residents, and communities who experience barriers to accessing services.
To reduce barriers to participation, the Commission agreed to adopt a more open and accessible recruitment approach, using a short application process and informal conversations rather than a highly formal selection model.
Voluntary Participation
Members acknowledged the challenges of operating as a fully voluntary body, particularly for individuals with caring responsibilities or limited time. The Commission agreed to continue raising the importance of supported participation for people with lived experience when engaging with partners.
Engagement with Cornwall Council
The Commission agreed that its impact would be strengthened by earlier and more regular engagement with Cornwall Council.
To support this, the Commission proposed inviting a Council representative to attend every other meeting to provide updates on upcoming priorities, plans, and consultations. This would allow the Commission to offer timely, constructive feedback before decisions are finalised.
Tools and Ways of Working
The Commission discussed the value of practical tools to support fairness and equality in decision-making, including the development of an equality impact assessment template that could be shared with partners.
Governance
To strengthen leadership capacity and external engagement, the Commission agreed to the appointment of a Vice Chair.
Next Steps
Publish a clear scope and mandate for the Commission for 2026
Launch targeted recruitment for new commissioners
