UoG wins Inclusive Employers Award

The University of Gloucestershire has become one of the first employers in Gloucestershire to receive an Inclusivity Works ‘Inclusive Employers’ Award.

The award scheme has been launched by Inclusivity Works to recognise businesses in Gloucestershire that lead by example by offering apprenticeships and employment opportunities to people who face barriers to work.

Inclusivity Works, developed by the GEM Project, aims to inspire and support employers in becoming more inclusive.

The University of Gloucestershire has developed a policy framework to ensure it provides an inclusive working and learning environment for its staff and students.

The Disability, Dyslexia and Learning Support Service, the Black, Asian, Minority Ethnic+ Network, the LGBT+ Society and a chaplaincy supporting students from all faiths or none, are among the support services for students.

Staff also have access to a range of support services, including the Women’s Network, the Pride Network, the chaplaincy and an Employee Assistance Programme.

Last month, the University of Gloucestershire’s Reciprocal Mentoring Programme, which provides opportunities for students of colour to partner with senior leaders, won an Advance HE Collaborative Award for Teaching Excellence.

Clare Peterson, the Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Manager at the University of Gloucestershire, said: “We’re extremely proud to have become one of the first employers in Gloucestershire to receive an Inclusivity Works ‘Inclusive Employers’ Award.

“We’re committed to being a community in which equality of opportunity is a reality for all applicants, students and staff. We review job descriptions, person specifications and job adverts to ensure they are inclusive, are committed to doing all we can to ensure that our recruitment and selection processes are without bias.

“In addition to building a community that creates a sense of belonging for all within the university, we are forging positive links with local communities and groups.”