Our commitment to diversity and inclusion

Our commitment to diversity and inclusion

At Essex our people are at the centre of everything we do and we aspire to build a culture in which every member of the University feels valued and can flourish.

Protected characteristics

There are protected characteristics which are covered in the Equality Act 2010, discrimination against these is unlawful.

Policies, guidance and definitions

Overview of EDI policies, guidance and definitions

Policies, guidance and definitions related to equality, diversity and inclusion.

Equality and diversity policy and strategy

Find out about our Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Policy 2019-25

Neuro-Inclusion in the workplace

We are committed to developing a framework of guidance to assist the University with supporting neurodiversity in the workplace.

Tackling Misogyny and Sexual Violence Against Women Policy

We have developed some guidance for students and staff on the University’s approach and on where they can find help and report any incidents of misogyny, sexism, harassment, or sexual violence.

Our approach to supporting trans, non-binary and gender non-conforming staff

How we support new and existing trans, non-binary and gender non-conforming staff and those who transition while at Essex.

Zero tolerance of harassment and bullying

The University celebrates diversity, challenges inequality and is committed to establishing an environment that is free from any form of harassment or bullying.

Non-disclosure agreements

We have a zero tolerance to sexual harassment, abuse and misconduct. Read our policy on non-disclosure agreements.

Charters, awards and pledges

Overview of EDI charters, awards and pledges

Charters, awards and pledges related to equality, diversity and inclusion.

Stonewall submissions

The submissions we have made to Stonewall for participation in its Workplace Equality Index.

What is Athena Swan?

Read more about our University and departmental gender equality awards.

Gender equality awards and applications

Read more about our gender equality awards and applications including Athena SWAN and the GEM award.

Athena Swan impact

Read about how the Athena SWAN award has helped new initiatives and policies be introduced into the University.

Race Equality Charter

Read more about the Race Equality Charter (REC).

Disability Confident Scheme 

We’re committed to hiring more people who are disabled to help us transform our culture, customer relations and performance.

Technician Commitment

The Technician Commitment aims to ensure visibility, recognition, career development and sustainability for technicians working in higher education and research, across all disciplines.

The Armed Forces Covenant

Find out more about our pledge to honour the Armed Forces Covenant.

Reports and action plans

Overview of EDI reports and action plans

Reports and action plans related to equality, diversity and inclusion.

Equality, diversity and inclusion annual reports

Find out about our equality, diversity and inclusion annual reports.

Gender Equality Plan

The Gender Equality Plan demonstrates our commitment to gender equality and sets clear goals and detailed actions and measures to achieve them.