Launched in 2016 the Race Equality Charter offers a framework for taking a strategic approach to advancing race equality in higher education Institutions.
It operates by providing a framework in which member institutions undergo a robust review of quantitative and qualitative data identifying context-specific priorities for race equality work resulting in the development of a comprehensive, evidence-based action plan, underpinning the institution’s race equality priorities and aims. Their efforts are assessed through a peer-reviewed process, with awards conferred recognising progress along a journey towards race equality. The assessment panel consists of staff from HEIs that have undergone specific REC panellist training.
The REC was trialled in 2014-15 where 30 institutions took part, with 21 submitting applications and eight subsequently receiving a Bronze award. It was then formally launched in January 2016 and as of May 2020 has 62 member Institutions with 14 bronze award holders.
To support higher education institutions (HEIs) in influencing culture change and advancing race equality we committed to carrying out a review after 3 years of the framework in operation to ensure it is still fit for purpose in current HE climate. The first phase of this review was conducted in 2019, with an independent assessment of all REC submissions to date. The second phase is research will focus on:
- explore the experiences of award-holders, applicants, and members of the Charter in engaging with REC
- establish a baseline for future reviews of the impact and value of REC on enhancing race equality in member institutions
- identify any areas where the processes or practice of the charter needs to be improved.
We are inviting tender proposals from interested parties, tender proposals should reach Advance HE by no later than 12 noon, Tuesday 26 May 2020.
Please see the tender document below for further information.