Professor Teresa Rees, Pro Vice-Chancellor, Cardiff UniversityCardiff University’s project has aimed to investigate and develop practical strategy options to enable the University to move beyond simply being compliant with the expected changes in Equality and Human Rights legislation, to foster an inclusive culture based on the principles of dignity, courtesy and respect.
To achieve this, the project comprised a number of phases. These were: gathering baseline data on the University’s progress in embedding equality and diversity across its functions; establishing areas of good practice and gaps where further work is required; scrutinising examples of successful approaches to leading and embedding cultural change with the sector and in other public and private sector organisations; identifying a network of Lead Equality and Diversity contact (LEaDs); planning to provide ongoing cultural change within their Schools and Directorates. The project aims are long-term and as such cannot be easily evaluated at this stage, but there has been progress at different levels of the University and good indication of enthusiasm for the role of the LEaD.
“Our vision is to be a world class university. We strive for excellence, integrity and innovation in every aspect of activity; a strong collaborative approach; open and effective communications and an inclusive culture based on dignity, courtesy and respect. The Leadership Foundation Fellowship has enabled Cardiff to take an evidence based approach to effective mainstreaming of equality and diversity, enhancing staff and students.”
Dr David Grant, Vice-Chancellor, Cardiff University.