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Women in HE Conference 2021

Race Equality Charter FAQs: Starting an application

The answers to some frequently asked questions about starting your application of the Race Equality Charter.

Which award should be applied for - Bronze, Bronze renewal or Silver?

It is expected that an institution will start with a Bronze level application before moving on to Bronze renewal or Silver level.

A Bronze award recognises that an institution has a solid foundation for eliminating racial inequalities and developing an inclusive culture that values all staff and students. A Bronze award acknowledges commitment and preparation to act. Applications should be candid about priorities identified and state clearly the plan to address them. At Bronze level, it is anticipated that an institution will have developed specific actions and initiatives, albeit these may not have yet been implemented. 

In addition to the requirements for a Bronze award, for a renewal, institutions will need to demonstrate progress against their previous action plan. Bronze renewals demonstrate ongoing commitment to tackling racial inequalities, and can provide evidence of actions having been completed, but the institution is not yet ready for a Silver level award. 

A Silver level award recognises a significant record of activity and achievement by the institution in promoting race equality and in addressing challenges across the whole institution. Applications should demonstrate that equality is embedded well within the institution with strong leadership in promoting the Charter principles, and evidence of the impact of race equality activities. Crucially, where progress has been made, the institution should be able to trace the cause. 

For further detail about the requirements for an award, please see the relevant applicant information pack (launched in July 2023) or REC handbook (for applicants using the old framework, up to the November 2024 submission round).  

How long before submitting an application should the process begin? 

For first-time applicants at the early stages of considering an institution’s race-specific work, it is estimated to take 24 months to apply for an award, from the point at which the self-assessment team has been convened. Institutions need time to identify and assess identified priorities and to develop a structured action plan around these priorities. If an institution has an existing track record in race equality, and have been proactive in developing actions in response, the process may be quicker.