A blog post by Sarah Sharples, Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Equality, Diversity and Inclusion.

“As we return to University after an Easter break, we look forward to a continuing programme of activity to further our work in support of Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI).

There are two events taking place in June that I would particularly like to highlight. The first is a one-day conference being held on Wednesday 5 June to consider the specific challenges associated with addressing EDI for our postgraduate research community. The Graduate School has put together an excellent programme that considers matters including overcoming resistance to EDI initiatives, as well as sharing a wide range of experiences of doctoral training environments.

The second event is being led by Professor Louise Mullany, in collaboration with the EPSRC STEMM Change project and Institute for Policy and Engagement. This one-day event on Friday 14 June marks the launch of our Equality, Diversity and Inclusion research hub, which aims to deliver a new initiative to support and engage colleagues who specialize in investigative research on issues of EDI.

If you would like to present your work at this event, please send a short abstract (100 words) of the research that you wish to showcase to Louise.Mullany@nottingham.ac.uk by Monday 13 May.

Alongside these activities to continue to build our community of understanding of EDI, we continue to ensure we have a firm commitment at the University to ensure that both colleagues and students can work in a relaxed environment where they can openly share their views and ideas. After all, it is through this environment that we can really be creative and be encouraged to perform to the best of our abilities.

We therefore have a zero tolerance approach to harassment, bullying or victimisation which can all impact our wellbeing and create a negative working environment. To put this into action, we are recruiting more voluntary Dignity Advisers to support colleagues and students should they have any concerns regarding harassment, bullying or victimisation.

Are you a good listener and have a passion for supporting your colleagues and students? If so, why not become a Dignity Adviser? This is a voluntary and important role and all that we ask is for you to spare a few hours a month during work time to listen to and support individuals that may have been subject to or be accused of harassment, bullying or victimisation.

This opportunity is a great way for you make a difference for colleagues and students, boost your interpersonal skills and further enrich your personal development. New Dignity Advisers will be invited to attend a one-day training course before they can start engaging with colleagues and students, and they will be fully supported by the HR team and a network of other Dignity Advisers. The time commitment involved is four to six hours a month, which will vary depending on the support required.

If you are interested in becoming a Dignity Adviser, please discuss this with your manager first and complete the online application form.”

Sarah Sharples
Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Equality, Diversity and Inclusion