Equality and Diversity (E&D) is an important topic on the University’s agenda. The University was established on an equal opportunities ethos in 1900, to allow women and men from all religious backgrounds to access Higher Education. This ethos has developed with society’s values and today the University is committed to maintaining an inclusive working and learning environment for all.
Equality and Diversity across the University
There is a network of E&D Champions in the Colleges and Professional Services, which is driven by the University’s Equality Team. E&D issues at the University are overseen by the Equality Executive Group (EEG) chaired by the Deputy Pro-Vice Chancellor for Equalities, Professor Una Martin.
There are several support networks at the University, which you can join at any time.
- BAME Network – promoting race equality and diversity
- Enabling Staff Network – promoting equality for those with disabilities
- Parents and Carers Network – promoting equality for those with children or other dependents
- Rainbow Network – promoting equality for the LGBTQ community
Soon, a Women’s Network will also be launched – this will be open to all staff, irrespective of gender identity, role within the organisation or any other characteristic.
Equality and Diversity within IT Services
Nandy Millan, Innovation Centre, is IT Services’ Champion for E&D.
The purpose of the E&D Champion is to play a key role in promoting a positive working environment, in which staff are treated fairly and with respect. The Champion is also responsible for encouraging all staff to play a role in creating and maintaining an environment in which harassment, bullying, victimisation and discrimination are understood to be unacceptable forms of behaviour.
The E&D Champion supports the cascading of University-wide equality initiatives and the embedding of behaviour and cultural change at local level. Nandy’s responsibilities include:
- Supporting the implementation and dissemination of the 2016–2020 Equality Scheme
- Promoting staff and student diversity activities
- Being a point of contact for equality issues; signposting staff to appropriate policies and services
- Identifying and highlighting issues which could be viewed as not providing equal opportunities
- Exploring equality-related barriers that may hinder any member of staff being successful
- Providing scrutiny for policy and strategy development and implementation
- Providing an advocacy role, when required, for implementation of policy and delivery of plans
If you have any issues around E&D which you’d like to seek advice on, please feel free to contact Nandy in total confidence.
How can I get involved?
There is a Staff Network Coffee Event on Monday 17 September, open to all staff. Join in for the opportunity to meet network members and get involved.
Date: Monday 17 September
Time: 12.30-1.30 pm
Location: Bramall Foyer, First Floor
Questions?
If you would like to find out more about Equality and Diversity within IT Services or across the wider University, please contact Nandy Millan, Champion for Equality and Diversity.