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Equality, diversity and inclusion
We include equality, diversity and inclusion concerns at the strategic level as part of our discussions at the senior management team. I aim to create a nourishing work context that enables all staff to be successful in their professional journeys and achieve their development goals.
Professor Melanie Kreye, Professor of Operations and Supply Chain Management, Associate Dean for EDI and Staff Development
Athena Swan
We received the Athena Swan Bronze award for the School in September 2023 in recognition of our work and commitment to promote gender equality. The School is committed to the Athena Swan Charter, and we are working towards achieving the Athena Swan Silver Award.
The implementation of our Athena Swan action plan considers an intersectional approach to equality and diversity issues. Our action plan focuses on:
- Culture, by embedding equality, diversity and inclusion into departmental norms, processes and practices. These cover priority areas such as support for work-life balance and recruitment and retention.
- Equality in career progression to the higher grades, staff training and career development support.
- Improved gender balance and wider representation of staff and students in the Department. This includes priority areas such as student careers and employability and widening participation.
As a disabled working-class woman, I have faced numerous barriers in my career, and I know from experience just how vital the Athena Swan activity is in achieving gender equality. I am proud to represent the School in the quest for the Silver Athena Swan Award, and to ensure that EDI work remains central to all our activities.
Susan Watson, Lecturer in Criminal Justice and Social Policy, Athena Swan co-lead
Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Forum Events
The EDI Forum
The School for Business and Society EDI Forum was launched in November 2023. It focuses on how best we can inspire a sense of community and belongingness for all students and staff at the School as part of our EDI strategy.
The EDI Forum provides a space within which to further engage with our staff and student community. The EDI Forum consists of a series of events over the calendar year to celebrate equality, inclusion and the diversity of both our staff and students at the School for Business and Society.
This year's theme was Movement: Moving More for our Mental Health, to mark Mental Health Awareness Week.
Neurodiversity at work
At this School for Business and Society (SBS) EDI Forum event, we focused on neurodiversity to mark the Neurodiversity Celebration Week, a worldwide initiative that challenges stereotypes and misconceptions about neurological differences.
The event provided a space for discussions and reflections on neurodiversity with staff and students. We welcomed Dr Josephine Go Jefferies, Newcastle University Business School, who presented her research and engagement activities to generate discussion about neurodiversity at work.
Members of staff and students attending the EDI forum opening event.
I strive to help create a community where every individual can thrive - shaped by thoughtful practice rather than circumstance. We are committed to ensuring that equality becomes a shared reality for all.
Zhe Jiang, Senior Lecturer, Athena Swan Co-Chair
Supporting staff and students
At York, we have various sources of support and information about equality, diversity and inclusion. Every department has an Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Champion who acts as a visible and proactive advocate of EDI within their department.
Regular events are held to raise awareness of present-day barriers and highlight ongoing work to remove such challenges across the University.
Advice, guidance and information for students, and for staff supporting students, on equality related issues.
Information about University-wide EDI initiatives, staff networks, and health and wellbeing support.
