The Anti-racist Wales Action plan: measuring its impact on people’s lives (summary)

The Anti-racist Wales Action Plan (ArWAP) (Welsh Government 2022a) was developed in response to the need to address systemic racism and promote racial equality across Wales. Developed through a process of co-production, the plan sets out actions to create a more inclusive and equitable society by tackling the root causes of racial inequalities.

The ArWAP includes a chapter on measurement, which proposes a broad approach to measurement for evaluation of the plan, including the development of a measurement framework. This report sets out the approach to establishing this framework, including a list of proposed indicators for each ArWAP chapter.

It is important to note that the quantitative indicators proposed in this report, are part of a comprehensive measurement and evaluation programme for the ArWAP, including an upcoming process and early impact evaluation. The evidence we need to measure change for the ArWAP will be a mixture of data; quantitative data (numbers and statistics), some of which will be derived from the indicators proposed in this framework, as well as qualitative data including lived experience, which will be derived from other sources such as the planned ArWAP evaluation. 

The indicators within this report are intended to provide a high-level, overarching summary of the ArWAP progress and to help assesses whether the plan is delivering as intended. Granular reporting of all 200+ ArWAP actions at an individual level is not within the scope of this framework. Where appropriate, observed high level patterns identified by the framework will be explored in further detail through further research, or other elements of the wider measurement and evaluation framework, such as the future ArWAP process and early impacts evaluation.

This framework sets out to build a strong system for monitoring the impact of the plan’s actions, with an emphasis on developing specific, measurable indicators. Key objectives include the development of reliable indicators for assessing progress, utilising robust sources of existing data These indicators serve to ensure that outcomes are not only clearly defined but also effectively monitored, thereby supporting transparency and enabling targeted interventions where needed.

While the ArWAP measurement framework establishes a solid foundation for monitoring progress, it is not without limitations. The complexity and breadth of issues related to racial inequality mean that some nuances may be missed by quantitative indicators alone; this is why it is important that the indicators in this framework are part of a broader approach to evaluation and monitoring for the ArWAP. Data availability and quality of the sources used to create the indicators in this framework, vary across the ArWAP chapters, which can affect the consistency and comparability of measurement across the plan. As the ArWAP develops, and as the equalities evidence base in Wales evolves, this framework will be reviewed and revised to ensure it remains relevant and effective.

By establishing clear mechanisms for measurement and accountability, the ArWAP measurement framework supports the plan’s aims for racial equality in Wales. The framework’s focus on transparency, inclusivity, and continuous improvement reflects a broader commitment to tackling both immediate and long-term disparities, ensuring that progress is sustained and meaningful for all communities.

Report author: Race Disparity Evidence Unit

Views expressed in this report are those of the researchers and not necessarily those of the Welsh Government.

For further information please contact:

Race Disparity Evidence Unit
ECWL – EPC Evidence Support Division
Welsh Government
Cathays Park
Cardiff
CF10 3NQ

Email: EqualityEvidenceUnit@gov.wales

Social research number: 46/2026
Digital ISBN: 978-1-83745-287-3