University News Last updated 04 February
Birmingham City University (BCU) has been awarded the Race Equality Charter Bronze Award by Advance HE, marking a significant milestone in the University’s ongoing commitment to advancing race equality across higher education.
The Race Equality Charter is a sector-led charter that aims to improve the representation, experiences, progression and success of staff and students from racially minoritised ethnic groups.
It covers all aspects of an institution’s activity and communities, including considering the representation and experiences of academic and research staff; professional, technical and operational staff; and students at all levels.
Achieving a Bronze Award demonstrates that BCU has not only identified key challenges relating to race equality but has developed a robust, evidence-based five-year action plan to drive further change.
- BCU’s action plan is aligned with the ambitions set out in Strategy 2030, with a focus on: Closing the degree awarding gap
- Enhancing graduate outcomes
- Building a workforce that reflects the diversity of our student body and region
- Embedding fair, equitable, and transparent processes across our strategy, operations, and service delivery
Director of Inclusion, Imogeen Denton said: “Our Race Equality Charter award will contribute to our work on improving outcomes for members of our diverse community who are underrepresented or face systemic disadvantage and is aligned to wider institutional goals such as Strategy 2030, Project Zero, and the Access and Participation Plan.
"Our application and action plan were developed by staff and students from across the University, during a period of considerable organisational change.
"This award is a testament to their hard work and commitment to creating an inclusive environment where every student and staff member feels safe, supported, and empowered to reach their full potential.”
Photo: Director of Inclusion, Imogeen Denton (L) and Chief People and Infrastructure Office, Adam Race (R).