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Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion

Our commitment to Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) is at the heart of everything we do as a University. We celebrate diversity and believe everyone in our community should be treated fairly and without prejudice, and we implement practices that go beyond compliance with legislation.

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Accolades

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  • We're in the top 10 in Europe and 3rd in the UK for International Student DiversityQS World University Rankings Europe 2026
  • 1st
    1stWe're 1st in the UK for students from low participation areasThe Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2025
  • Top20We're in the UK top 20 for social inclusionThe Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2026
  • 10
    Top10We're in the UK top 10 for student support servicesDaily Mail University Guide 2026

What is equality, diversity, and inclusion?

Equality means making sure everyone has the same chance to succeed and is treated fairly, whatever their background or identity. Sometimes that means offering extra support to certain groups so everyone can reach the same outcomes.

Diversity is about recognising and valuing the differences that make each of us unique.

Inclusion means creating a community where everyone feels respected, supported, and that they belong.

Here you’ll find information and support around EDI – from specialist services for students who need extra help, to details about faith, chaplaincy, and prayer spaces.

We’ve also shared links to key policies and reports, including our annual EDI report, gender pay gap data, and our Report and Support tool. You can also explore guidance on harassment and sexual misconduct, and find student societies and staff networks that help make our university an inclusive place for everyone.

Two students at the Islamic Relief stall at Freshers' Fair

Specialist support

At university, everyone’s journey is different, and some students may need extra support to thrive in their studying and feel at home. Our specialist services provide practical help, advice, and resources designed around your individual needs. Some of these areas of support include:

  • Black, Asian, and minority ethnic (BAME) students
  • Care-experienced students
  • Disabled students
  • Estranged students
  • Faith and chaplaincy
  • Gypsy, Traveller, Roma, Showman, and Boater (GTRSB) students
  • LGBTQI+ students.

You can explore the full range of specialist support available by visiting our specialist support page.

Specialist support

Policies and reports

Learn more about the key policies and reports that guide our commitment to Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion. You can also view the full list of the University’s policies and procedures.

A group of students standing in CitySpace with food at the Global Food Festival
Students in the library looking at books by the shelves
A smiling student wearing a Chapel of Light t-shirt at Freshers' Fair
Someone sitting and talking into a microphone at the International Women's Day Conference

Staff networks

As a university, we're committed to creating a workplace where all staff feel supported and valued. EDI is central to this commitment and we strive to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to contribute and succeed.

One of the ways we do this is through staff networks, which provide a space for colleagues to connect, share experiences, and address issues that may affect underrepresented or disadvantaged groups. Our current staff networks include:

  • Pride Network (LGBTQI+)
  • Race, Ethnicity, and Cultural Heritage Network
  • Enable Network (disability and long-term health conditions)
  • Family Network
  • Carers Network
  • Armed Services Community
  • Women's Network
  • Menopause Network
  • Wellbeing Network
  • Men's Engagement Network.

Each network plays a vital role in fostering inclusion, raising awareness, and helping to shape a University environment where every member of staff can feel supported and empowered.

View more about staff networks (login required)(opens in new tab)
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Our inclusive societies

Our Students’ Union (SU) is home to over 70 societies, offering plenty of opportunities to meet new people, explore your interests, and become part of our diverse community. With such a wide range of groups, there’s something for everyone. Some of our societies include:

  • LGBTQ+ Society
  • Feminist Society
  • Christian Union
  • Islamic Society
  • African Caribbean Society
  • Nigerian Student Society.

To discover the full list of societies and find the one that's right for you, visit the SU website.

View all societies(opens in new tab)

Accessibility

We've partnered with AccessAble to provide accessibility information for everyone who comes on campus. They're the UK’s leading provider of detailed disabled access information. Our partnership has enabled us to create Access Guides to all rooms and shared spaces at both the Sir Tom Cowie Campus at St Peter's and City Campus.

View our access guides(opens in new tab)