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Our University is proud of our super-diverse local and global community of students and staff.

All of us who work and learn within the University are committed to ensuring that all our work begins from the advancement of equity and a principle of inclusion where we respect the rights and dignity of all people whatever their background.

Diversity is one of our key strengths and fundamental to our success. We value the diversity of all, and recognise peoples’ distinct, intersectional identities and their role in enhancing our University community. We want to ensure that everyone thrives and are treated equally and with respect and are committed to eliminate practices that undermine or are harmful to anyone involved in the activities of our University.

We therefore have a zero tolerance of unlawful discrimination, intimidation or harassment of anyone connected with the University, specifically related to their race, religion or belief, age, gender reassignment, sex, sexual orientation, disability, marital or partnership status or maternity and pregnancy and are committed to take appropriate action to address it. In addition we strive to advance equality of opportunity and foster good relations between all people at the University.

We are committed to a developing a culture of learning and will create an environment where people can address and debate differences and constantly reflect on practices to drive improvement. We recognise that conversations and debate on areas of equality, diversity and inclusion are often challenging and that people will make mistakes. We will openly acknowledge our mistakes and take accountability to improve practices and ensure mistakes are not repeated.

Through our policies, practices and behaviours we will build a culture of equality, openness, inclusion, fairness and transparency. We will do this by avoiding assumptions and check in with peoples lived experience to ensure equity of opportunity.

Protected Characteristics

In line with the Equality Act 2010 including the provisions on public sector general and specific duties, the University continues to be committed towards working to eliminate discrimination, harassment, advancing equality and fostering good relations in respect of all protected characteristics which relate to its students, staff and general users of its variety of services, namely:

  • Age
  • Disability
  • Gender Reassignment
  • Marriage and Civil Partnership
  • Pregnancy and Maternity
  • Race Religion or Belief
  • Sex Sexual Orientation

Staff Networks

The Staff Equality Networks provide an opportunity for interested staff to participate in promoting progress and good practice in relation to equality, diversity and inclusion as well as opportunities for peer support and development. There are currently four networks, inclusive and open to all staff, they are the Race Equality Network, LGBT+ Network, Disability Network and Women's Network.

Upcoming Diversity and Inclusion Events

For more information on events, email lgbtqalliance@beds.ac.uk