We want every member of staff to feel that they belong, can be themselves and that their opinion counts.
We can only reach our ambitious goals with multi-skilled, multi-experienced teams. Different perspectives make our work better.
What unites us is a passion for higher education and the enthusiasm to spread the message about the positive impacts UK universities have on our society.
Equality, diversity and inclusion at work
Equality and diversity help create new ideas and approaches to teaching, learning and research. With that in mind, we’re building a culture where difference is valued. We’re constantly evolving the programmes and tools that help all employees grow and manage rewarding careers.
Our equality, diversity and inclusion action plan – which is supported by our senior leadership team – focuses on three main areas:
Representation
- We invite a wide range of external speakers to speak about diversity and inclusion.
- We provide support for staff to set up networks and forums to raise awareness and work together to make UUK a more inclusive place to work. This currently includes a Women’s and Gender Equality network, an LGBTQ+ network, and a Race Equity network. The groups arrange speakers, hold events and discussion.
- Anyone in the organisation can contribute their ideas and experience to help us with our policies by joining our Equality, Diversity and Inclusion action Network.
Culture
- All staff have the opportunity to write for our staff blog to share their stories and experiences – from career development to tackling racism at work.
- We hold inclusive staff celebrations to recognise the contributions that everyone makes across the organisation.
- We understand that not everyone can work 9-5. With our flexitime working policy, we trust our staff to work flexibly.
- We plan activities and events around awareness days and celebrations.
Recruitment
- We provide unconscious bias training for staff to make sure everyone who applies to us is treated equally.
- We provide tailored training for recruitment managers and access to a recruitment toolkit.
Code of conduct
At Universities UK we have a zero-tolerance approach towards any form of unlawful discrimination, prejudice, bullying and harassment. We are committed to ensuring all people are treated with dignity and respect regardless of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, or sexual orientation. We will respond promptly to any reports of incidents whether in person or virtually.