Equality, diversity and inclusion

A continuing commitment to equality means that all students, and staff, should have equal opportunities to reach their full potential at Huddersfield. This is supported by a number of initiatives.

Here are just a few:

Race equality

The University has signed up to Advance HE’s Race Equality Charter which helps universities to improve the representation, progression and success of Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic (BAME) students and staff within Higher Education. As part of our commitment, we are developing initiatives and solutions to improve race equality across the University.

Gender equality

We hold an Athena SWAN Bronze Award for gender equality. The Athena SWAN Charter is a framework used across the globe to support and transform gender equality within Higher Education and research. The Charter guides institutions on how to achieve their gender equality objectives in terms of representation, student progression, career development and the working environment.

LGBTQ+

The vibrant colours of the LGBTQ+ movement, proudly displayed at the entrance of the University, send out a permanent message of inclusiveness and tolerance – everyone is welcome at the University of Huddersfield. The transformed zebra crossing was unveiled during National Inclusion Week in September 2019.

Broaden My Bookshelf

Broaden My Bookshelf is an initiative to increase the range of books in the Library written by authors from a BAME background, and also books by and about LGBT+ people. Students can suggest books to the Library, and there’s also a display of recommendations in the Library foyer.

Make a change!

The Students’ Union runs five volunteer, student-led networks that are defined and directed by their individual members. This includes the BAME Ambassadors, Disabled Students Network, Global Students Network, LGBT+ Students Network and the Women’s Network. If you’re passionate, motivated and identify with any of these networks, you could get involved to ensure that students are heard, better represented and their views are voiced from a position of authenticity.

“I’ve been passionate about representing students since I started my studies at the University of Huddersfield. “The role of Equalities Officer involves meeting with the Student Networks at the University, and attending regular meetings which can range from School Teaching and Learning Committees to School Boards and the Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Committee. “My role specifically focuses on the student voices that are generated from the Student Networks and reaching out to the University and/or local community on how these students can be well represented and inclusivity can be achieved. “In the Student Network meetings, we discuss current issues or topics that relate to the Network, such as the Black Lives Matter movement, Disabled Students’ Allowance or LGBT History Month, and we highlight these with relevant bodies in the University. “Being part of the Students’ Union has enriched my university experience. As an International student I have developed interpersonal skills and I get to meet different people with similar values.”

Nurin Mushahar Equalities Officer, Huddersfield Students’ Union

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