Under the pioneering Single Equalities Scheme (SES), issues of race, age, sexual orientation, gender, disability, faith and belief are a consideration at all times.

Officers in Wigan, along with their colleagues throughout Greater Manchester Police, will be asked to consider these issues in everything they do, from drawing up policy to arranging a function.

A draft of the SES has been drawn up and, if approved, will make the GMPA the first in the country to have a single equalities scheme.

Majid Hussain, the authority's lead member for equality and human rights, said: "Recognising and respecting the diversity of people's needs and enabling equality of opportunity for all is at the heart of the ambition of the scheme.

"That applies as much to our staff as to those who we serve as an authority and those people whose needs and views we represent in our role to oversee the police service. Our agenda for change for the next three years is challenging and exciting and brings us many opportunities."

Under new laws introduced in March this year authorities such as councils and police authorities must produce equality schemes and promote equality and diversity.