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Two new institutional awards for Race Equality Charter

13 Nov 2020 | Advance HE Leeds Trinity University and the University of Wolverhampton join growing list of Charter award holders

Two universities have proved they are committed to tackling race inequality within their institution by achieving a Bronze award from Advance HE’s Race Equality Charter (REC).

Leeds Trinity University and the University of Wolverhampton are awarded the Charter mark in the latest round of the REC, taking the total number of award holders to 17. Kings College London also renewed its Bronze award in the July 2020 round.

The Race Equality Charter aims to improve the representation, progression and success of Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic (BAME) staff and students within higher education. The Charter provides a framework through which institutions work to self-reflect on institutional and cultural barriers standing in the way of BAME staff and students. There are currently 73 institutional REC members.

Ammara Khan, Head of the Race Equality Charter, said, “Advance HE works proactively to support our REC members to submit applications for an award. As soon as institutions sign up they have three years to submit and we have two award rounds which are in February and July.

“We have seen in a positive increase in HEIs talking about race equality and preparing to sign up to the Charter. We also have a number of institutions signing the principles of the Charter at the point at which they renew their annual membership with us. The next steps now are to ensure those intentions are turned into action so that race equality becomes embedded across the sector to create a positive experience for BAME staff and students alike.”

In my first few weeks as Vice-Chancellor of Leeds Trinity, I’ve seen first-hand how the University’s community approach provides an open and welcoming environment for all, whatever their background or belief.

“I’m delighted that the action colleagues have taken to improve the representation, progression and success of BAME students and staff at our institution has been recognised with the Race Equality Charter Bronze award. I would like to thank all staff and students who engaged with the process.

“This work does not stop now. More staff and students than ever before are talking about race inequality within higher education. I am committed to ensuring we hold ourselves accountable for the progress we still need to make within our University. We have a challenging, inclusive and achievable plan, and I am confident we will make a difference.”

Professor Charles Egbu, Vice-Chancellor of Leeds Trinity University

I am delighted that the University of Wolverhampton has achieved the Race Equality Charter Bronze Award.

“We are a University that prides itself on being a champion for equality and diversity and the Race Equality Charter framework, which is evidence based, has enabled the University to be more strategic and targeted in our race equality work.

“We will now continue to make the progress necessary to ensure that it is not just an award, but a true launch pad for a more equitable and inclusive University of Wolverhampton for our Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic staff and students.’’

Geoff Layer, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Wolverhampton

Advance HE's Race Equality Charter is open now for intentions to submit in February 2021. The deadline to apply is 17 December 2020. Find out how to apply

Our Enhancing Good Practice event takes place on 18 November for REC participants. Find out more and book your place. 

Find out more about our work in race equality

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