Equality, diversity and inclusion
Proud to celebrate and support our vibrant Kingston University communities
Welcome to the Equality, Diversity and Inclusion pages at Kingston. Find out how we are striving to challenge ourselves to think and act differently in order that everyone in our university feels like they belong, can be their authentic selves, and are empowered to reach their full potential.
We know that our diversity brings only benefits for our students, our staff and our work. The greater variety of perspectives and experiences we have, the better we can create innovative ways of learning and teaching, while developing ideas and solutions to create and foster equity and social justice.
Kingston has a long history of challenging inequality in all its forms and works hard to ensure it fulfils and exceeds its legal obligations under the Equality Act 2010 and the Public Sector Equality Duty. We are proud of the journey so far but recognise that there is still much work to be done. See below how we're making a difference, one step at a time.
EDI objectives and commitments
At Kingston we see diversity as a strength and value the rich variety of backgrounds, identities and experiences our staff and students bring to the university.
We are committed to strengthening our ethos around equity for every student and member of staff, and pledge to embed equality in all that we do and to reject racism in all its forms.
We are actively listening to and engaging with our staff and student community and setting new objectives and commitments that will promote a culture of acceptance without exception.
News
Kingston University signs up to Stonewall
20 May 2021
Inclusive curriculum
At Kingston, we believe that in a global and diverse world, our degree courses should reflect the experiences of a diverse range of people, with different backgrounds and perspectives.
Creating an inclusive curriculum is part of our drive to close the Degree Awarding Gap for students by making our courses more inclusive and accessible to everyone, whatever their background.
Equality matters
Here you will find some of our key EDI themes initiatives that are driving forward equality of opportunity for all staff and students and promoting a culture of inclusivity.
Tackling the Degree Awarding Gap
We want to ensure that students from all walks of life are enabled to access and succeed in higher education. By identifying and addressing different degree outcomes within our student population, we can take steps to close unexplained degree awarding gaps.
Beyond Barriers Mentoring Scheme
This scheme sees industry professionals mentor students to support their personal and professional development. It's our way of ensuring that every student has the opportunity to succeed, regardless of their background.
Equality, diversity and inclusion sponsors
We have established equality sponsors from the senior leadership team to champion activity in relation to some of the characteristics protected under the Equality Act 2010.
Equality data
By tracking staff and student demographics, we can ensure the university is meeting its commitments to improving equity on race, gender, sexual orientation, disability.
Training, development and resources
We worked with our staff network groups to develop a comprehensive package of EDI training designed to build awareness, understanding and engagement.
Guidance and support
We provide comprehensive support services for staff and students, from counselling and support with specific learning differences to help with disabilities and access to an Employee Assistance Programme.
Celebrating diversity
Women in STEM
Showcasing some of the inspirational stories of our STEM community, the women who have influenced them and the work they are doing that is making a difference across the world.
Women's History Month
Each year, the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women throughout society are celebrated during Women's History Month.
LGBT+ History Month
LGBT+ History Month is a time to reflect, to celebrate and to look to the future. Kingston University's students, staff and alumni are marking the month through a series of online events, shared creative expression and open conversations.
Black History Month
During Black History Month, Kingston University students, staff and alumni will be marking the enormous contributions the Black community has made to Britain.
KU Cares
We are very proud that 2021 marks the 15-year anniversary of KU Cares, our award winning, comprehensive package of support for care leavers, estranged students, young adult carers' and sanctuary scholars at Kingston University.
Get involved
If you want to help drive change and make a difference around areas of gender, race, disability and sexual orientation, there are many ways for staff and students to get involved.
The Network of Equality Champions is for students and staff interested in shaping the University's equality culture, while our Student Equality Collaborators and Inclusive Curriculum Consultants are students who work with staff on embedding equality across the University and into the curriculum. You can join the Disability Network, run by students and staff, or check out Kingston Students Union (KSU) which has dozens of active societies such as the LGBT+ Hub.
Staff networks
The BAME Staff Network is an invaluable space for hundreds of colleagues to collaborate and be empowered to create a working and learning environment free from racism and racialised experiences at Kingston. The LGBTQ Staff Network is an opportunity to socialise, network, collaborate and to make Kingston an organisation that fully embraces acceptance without exception. Watch this space for more networks emerging during 2021.
Charter marks accreditations and pledges
Anti-Racism pledge
The anti-racism pledge is a sector-wide commitment started by the Scottish Funding Council (SFC). Kingston University fully endorses the anti-racism pledge: 'Racism exists on our campuses and in our society. Call it what it is and reject it in all its forms. We stand united against racism.'
Armed Forces Covenant
Armed Forces Covenant Kingston University has signed up to the Armed Forces Covenant and pledges to uphold its key principles, around understanding and respecting those who serve or who have served in the armed forces.
Athena Swan
The Athena SWAN Charter is a global scheme designed to support and transform gender equality within higher education (HE) and research.
Care Leaver Covenant
An early adopter of the government's Care Leaver Covenant, the University promises to provide support for care leavers aged 16-25 to help them in to and beyond university.
Disability Confident Scheme
The Disability Confident scheme supports employers to make the most of the talents disabled people can bring to the workplace.
National Network for the Education of Care Leavers
The university is a member of the National Network for the Education of Care Leavers (NNECL) and proud to hold the NNECL Quality Mark. We are committed to supporting care experienced students to access and succeed in Higher Education.
Race Equality Charter Award
Eliminating institutional and cultural barriers impacting Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic (BAME) staff and students.
Standalone Pledge
In 2016 the University was one of the first signatories of the Standalone Pledge to support estranged learners in higher education.
Stonewall
Kingston University is proud to be a member of Stonewall's Diversity Champions Programme, a scheme that works with institutions to create inclusive and accepting cultures.
