Support for staff and students

Associate Vice-President for Equality and Diversity

Aneez Esmail is the Associate Vice-President for Equality and Diversity with responsibility for all equality and diversity issues within the University. Aneez says:

"We live in a diverse multicultural society where people define who they are in a variety of ways. It's important we recognise and respect how people identify themselves. I am confident that the University community will rise to new challenges and embrace this approach to enable a fair and equal environment where all members have the  opportunity to achieve their potential."

Equality and Diversity Team

The Equality and Diversity Team has a remit for staff and students, and provides advice and guidance, especially with regard to legislation and rights.

Advice for disabled staff and students

The Disability Support Office (DSO) assists prospective and current students to identify their support needs.

In addition, two posts are funded by HR to ensure that disabled staff and applicants receive the high-quality confidential support that they require to access their job. This includes working with people who are applying for jobs at the University, supporting existing staff, and advising those staff hoping to return to work after an extended period of disability-related absence.

Harassment advisors and mediators

As part of the Dignity at Work and Study Policy, the University has identified and trained a number of harassment advisors. They provide confidential advice and support for those staff and students on the University's policy and are able to explain all available options.

Disability Two Ticks symbol

Jobcentre Plus has awarded the University the Two Ticks Disability symbol. This symbol recognises those employers who have agreed to meet certain commitments regarding the recruitment, employment, retention and career development of disabled people.

Equality impact assessments

An equality impact assessment is a way for the University to review how equality is promoted in relation to its main areas of business. The main function of these assessments is to determine how people experience the services the University provides in relation to all aspects of equality.

Assessments should not be seen as way to investigate complaints or identify specific cases of discrimination. They are a proactive developmental process that highlights good practice and identifies any potential areas for improvement. 

Staff network groups

A number of staff networks have been formed at the University allowing particular groups to meet and discuss issues that may be affecting their particular community.

Student network groups

Numerous groups are run by students to support the diverse population of their community.