The REC’s mission is to improve the representation, experience, progression and success of minoritised ethnic staff and students within higher education. It provides a rigorous framework through which institutions work to identify, critically reflect and act on barriers to equality.
Awarded by Advance HE, the Bronze Award marks the University’s commitment to working to achieve race equality across the institution and is accompanied by a 5-year Race Action Plan. Professor Morag Macdonald, Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Equality, Diversity and Inclusion, Chair of the University’s Equality, Diversity and Inclusion & Wellbeing committee, and active member of the REC Self-Assessment team, said,
“This award is testament to the work or our fantastic Race Equality Charter Self- Assessment Team who have been engaged in extensive consultation with our staff and student community, along with extensive data analysis to provide a comprehensive picture of the University’s challenges – and opportunities – and which led to the development of our action plan.â€
Morag added, “This vital work does not stop here. Looking ahead, Self-Assessment Team members will continue their efforts through the newly formed Race Equality
Charter Working Group, which will meet quarterly to monitor progress and ensure continued momentum in delivering the action plan. The University remains deeply committed to advancing race equality and creating an inclusive environment for all.â€
Anne Mwangi, Head of the Race Equality Charter, said, “REC Bronze is recognition of an institution’s robust foundation for eliminating racial inequalities, developing inclusive cultures and moving from commitment to sustainable and integrated bold and ambitious action.
“Advance HE looks forward to supporting ¶º±ÆÖ±²¥ as it progresses its action plans to advance race equality.â€
The University’s Race Action Plan will be published in the coming months alongside the launch of new staff race equality webpages. The University’s Bronze Award is valid for five years.
