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Good University Guide 2026 - University of the Year for - Social Inclusion

Equality, Diversity & Inclusion

Our Commitment to Equality, Diversity & Inclusion (EDI)

Birmingham Newman University is a values‑driven institution committed to building and sustaining a diverse, inclusive and empowering community.

Our approach to EDI is grounded in our University Vision — to be the leading university in inclusive education for the graduate workforce of tomorrow — and is central to our mission and identity.

We are proud to have been recognised as University of the Year for Social Inclusion (The Times & Sunday Times, 2026), reflecting our commitment to widening access and ensuring that all who can benefit from higher education are supported to succeed.

At the heart of our values is:

All Belong – we treat each person, in each community, with dignity and respect.

Our EDI Principles

We foster an environment where staff and students can achieve their full potential by nurturing openness, participation and confidence. The key principles underpinning our approach include: 

  • A community based on mutual respect, tolerance and high professional standards.
  • Recognition that equality of opportunity requires understanding, listening, and removing barriers wherever they arise.
  • A commitment to addressing unlawful behaviour, sexual harassment, bullying, and any conduct outside freedom of expression within the law.
  • A culture where diversity is celebrated, and all students and staff are valued equally.

Inclusive practice is woven throughout our curriculum, support structures, and institutional processes. Our strategic priorities include sustaining an innovative and inclusive research‑informed curriculum and ensuring excellent outcomes for all learners. 

What We Do

To ensure equality of opportunity across the University, we will: 

  • Work proactively to promote good relations across the community.
  • Take effective action to prevent discrimination, bullying or harassment.
  • Promote equitable access to education, training and progression.
  • Provide flexible learning and working opportunities to support diverse aspirations.
  • Embed inclusive practice in recruitment, selection, promotion and curriculum design.
  • Listen to and learn from our students, staff and partners.
  • Promote, manage and monitor EDI across all protected characteristics, aligned with our legislative responsibilities under the Equality Act 2010.
Student sitting in chair near window reflecting on laptop

Freedom of Expression and Inclusion

Birmingham Newman University recognises the important interrelationship between EDI and freedom of expression. The University has a duty to secure lawful free expression, even where views expressed may be controversial or offensive. At the same time, we recognise that lawful speech may negatively affect individuals or groups.

Our approach balances:

  • Upholding lawful freedom of expression and academic freedom, and;
  • Ensuring individuals are supported to participate fully in University life.

This is guided by the University’s Code of Practice on Freedom of Expression.

EDI Position Statement (2026)

Our updated Equality, Diversity & Inclusion Position Statement outlines how these commitments are lived across the University. 

Equality Act 2010 and Public Sector Duty

As a public institution, we work to meet our obligations under the Equality Act 2010 and the Public Sector Equality Duty. This includes:

  • Publishing Equality Objectives at least every four years.
  • Publishing information demonstrating compliance at least annually.

To support our EDI commitments, you may also find the following relevant: 

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