Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

A group in which everyone can thrive

The LSBU Group is one of the most diverse educational providers in the country. We have a long history of championing EDI and we believe it's the cornerstone of a thriving learning environment.

Equality, diversity, and inclusion isn’t something that we talk about because we have to; we’re proud to say that EDI is woven into our very DNA.

Third in the World for Reducing Inequalities

LSBU has ranked third in the world for reducing inequalities in the prestigious Times Higher Impact Rankings 2024. We were recognised for a range of work, including a 19% rise in the number of LSBU students with disabilities since 2023, working with schools to encourage girls to study STEM subjects at university, and UK-first research projects, such as blood pressure testing at barbershops.

Our vision is to transform lives, communities, businesses and society through education and insight. We will only achieve this by being inclusive and, while much has been achieved, there is still more to do. However, we know that with the whole LSBU Group working together, we can achieve this.

Take a look at our EDI Calendar 2024/25 to see how we come together as a Group to ensure EDI is woven into our everyday lives.

Your EDI Support System

Central EDI Team

Our dedicated team works diligently to advance EDI work across the LSBU Group, for both staff and students. The team advises on and implements policies, manages Athena SWAN and Race Equality Charter, delivers comprehensive EDI training, and coordinates Staff Networks and local EDI Leads.

Staff Networks

There are currently 5 staff networks that our colleagues can get involved in:

DNet – Disability and Accessibility Network
SoNet – LBGTQIA+ and Allies Network
EquiNet – our BAME Staff and Allies Network
GenderNet – Gender Equality Network
Carents - Parents and Carers Network

Local EDI Leads

Across LSBU, we have named EDI Leads responsible for promoting EDI within their academic or business area. Their role involves promoting and supporting local implementation of EDI projects, policies and processes, acting as a core member of the EDI Steering Group to provide insights, feedback and suggestions and

working with the central EDI team to analyse and interpret EDI quantitative and qualitative data for action-planning and evaluation.

EDI Steering Group

The EDI Steering Group is chaired by our Pro Vice Chancellor, and it provides strategic direction and guidance for all EDI activities across the LSBU Group. At the Group’s quarterly meetings, the EDI Team, Staff Network Chairs, EDI Leads, Decolonising Research Fellow, and other relevant project leads, all come together to share their updates and thoughts to help push forward our EDI aims in the most strategic and effective way.

Dignity at Work Advisers

The Dignity at Work Advisers are trained members of staff who offer support and advice to staff members who are experiencing bullying or harassment in the workplace. This includes helping staff to report an incident, seek wellbeing support, and guide them through our policies and reporting options to find what suits them the best.

Disability & Dyslexia Support

We are committed to ensuring that students with any disability have equal access to all teaching and learning – and an equal opportunity to show their skills, reach their potential and excel in their chosen field. Therefore, we work closely with academic teams and relevant colleagues to ensure that you are fully included in the learning experience and can demonstrate your skills and knowledge, whilst also promoting inclusive practice across the institution. Learn more about the support we have to offer.

Widening Participation

At LSBU, we look to address differences in progression to university between different groups, acknowledging that learners from disadvantaged backgrounds may face significant barriers when considering, applying to, and succeeding in Higher Education. Therefore, we provide extra programmes for those learners who come from underrepresented social groups who might miss out on the opportunity to progress due to circumstances out of their control. Learn more about how we do this.

Decolonising the Curriculum

At LSBU, we have established a Decolonising Vision that is currently being actively integrated throughout the institution. The vision's first statement serves as a guiding principle: “LSBU recognises the role that race, racism and racialisation have played within the Higher Education sector, and we will reject it, stand against it and be actively antiracist.” Learn more about LSBU’s Decolonising Vision Statement, case studies, and how it complements our wider EDI work.

Mental Health and Wellbeing

Our team of mental health professionals provide a confidential space for students to talk about whatever’s going on, advise you on what might help, and collaborate with you to develop a holistic support plan. Find out more information on what wellbeing support is available and how to access it.

For staff, we have Mental Health first Aiders (MHFA) across the Group who are trained in recognising the signs and symptoms of a range of mental ill health conditions. They volunteer their time to hold supportive conversations, provide signposting to appropriate services, and help to create a culture of support for staff experiencing mental distress.

Multi-Faith Support

The Multi-Faith Support team is a team of local Associate Chaplains who can provide support from a faith perspective, bringing their lived experience of living a life of faith onto campus and offering their presence and accompaniment to others. They support students of all faiths or none. Chaplains are known as good listeners. They also support students who are affected by bereavement or other life challenges and are happy to explore questions of faith and spirituality whilst always being respectful and open to the individual’s worldview. Find out more.

Memberships

We hold a range of memberships with key external organisations that support our commitment to EDI best practices. Through our partnerships with the Business Disability Forum, Advance HE, and Stonewall, we gain access to resources and services that help us break down barriers to inclusion across the LSBU Group.

Taking Action

Athena SWAN

At LSBU, we are dedicated to advancing gender equality. Discover more about our commitment through the Athena SWAN charter.

Race Equality Charter

LSBU is committed to promoting race equality and supporting our diverse community. Learn more about our work through the Race Equality Charter.

Disability Confident

LSBU is part of the Disability Confident Scheme and currently holds a Level 2 Disability Confident employer status. This includes having a ‘two ticks’ recruitment system in place meaning that disabled people applying to LSBU are guaranteed an interview if they meet the essential criteria.

Stonewall

LSBU has been listed as one of Stonewall’s Top 100 Employers 2024 list, recognising our commitment to creating an inclusive and supportive environment for LGBTQ+ staff and students. We were ranked 54th for our efforts in creating a workplace where LGBTQ+ employees can be their authentic selves.

Staff Policies & Reports

Below are some relevant EDI Staff policies and reports for you to look through.

Student Policies & Reports

To see a comprehensive list of all of our student-related policies, please click here.

Our Partners

We’re engaged with a number of national charter marks, groups and accreditations that help drive us to be the best we can be.

Follow the links to their websites below.