We work hard to develop and sustain a diverse and inclusive community. Read more about our objectives, progress and how we measure our success in promoting equality, diversity and inclusion.

Our equality objectives

Our equality objectives have been informed by quantitative and qualitative data, gathered through various means such as Equality Charter self-assessments and monitoring key processes. These objectives reflect the wide range of work we undertake in this area.

Progress against our objectives is regularly reviewed by the Equality, Diversity & Inclusion Committee (EDIC) and the University Board through the Finances & Resources Committee.

Download our EDI Annual Report 2022-23 and EDI Priorities 2024-26 (docx, 3.4mb) to find out about the progress we’re making and the action plans in place.

Explore the objectives

Equality Charters, schemes and commitments

We have signed up to several national equality charters and schemes, reflecting sector best practices and our dedication to making BU a welcoming place to work and study. These schemes promote action for individuals who share one or more protected characteristics, career stages or pathways. We collaborate with key stakeholders for our student and staff community to support the planning and delivery of self-assessments and action plans.

Improving equality of opportunity for students

Our Access & Participation Plan sets out how we will improve equality of opportunity in higher education. It covers how we encourage a broad spectrum of students into higher education and how we support all students to achieve their very best while studying at BU. 

Download our Access & Participation Plan 2020-21 to 2024-25 (pdf,162kb)

Creating a more inclusive and equitable society through our research

We challenge marginalisation, embody ethical reporting and digital reporting, protect the vulnerable and empower communities. We do this by listening to those who are often excluded from decision making and help them to be heard. 

Explore our research and read the stories of the BU community

Networks and societies

Staff and postgraduate research students have come together to form networks and societies to represent, support and engage members who share a similar background, characteristic or common cause. The networks are autonomous, with their own terms of reference and work with the university to shape and deliver organisational strategy and policy to improve staff experiences.

EDI calendar

Throughout the year, we celebrate and mark the diversity of our community in a number of ways. Taking part in Bourne Free, Bournemouth’s annual Pride event, is just one example of this. Our EDI calendar highlights these events. If you are organising an events aligned to one or more of these dates, please email: [email protected]