Useful resources for staff and students

Glossary of Inclusive Practice Terminology

Adapted from MSC Active Inclusion, Challenging Exclusions: Decolonising Medical & Dental Curricula

Warwick Medical School Awarding Gap group (Version 1: Oct 2025)

General Terms Terms Related to Race Terms Related to Disability Terms Related to Gender and Sex Terms Related to Sexual Orientation

CONTENT WARNING - This glossary includes terminology and definitions that relate to sensitive topics, which some readers may find distressing or triggering.

At Warwick Medical School (WMS), we recognise that developing an inclusive learning and working environment begins with a shared understanding of the language we use. Language shapes our awareness of identity, belonging, and inclusion, and enables us to engage respectfully and meaningfully with the diverse experiences of our students, staff, and wider community.

This glossary has been developed as a practical resource to support colleagues in fostering inclusive practice across teaching, research, and professional interactions. It is intended to serve as a foundation for building confidence and competence in the use of inclusive language.

The glossary is organised around several of the Protected Characteristics defined by the Equality Act 2010, as well as broader Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) themes. We recognise that some terms may not exactly fit with one particular characteristic or may overlap across multiple categories. Where relevant, guidance is provided on preferred or appropriate usage, links/references to further resources, and notes on the terminology most commonly adopted within the University context.

We appreciate that language related to inclusion is dynamic and often deeply personal. Individuals may use different words to describe their own identities and experiences, and terminology continues to evolve as understanding and awareness grow. It is therefore important to remain respectful of personal preferences and open to change in how language is used over time.

This glossary is not exhaustive, nor does it claim to represent all perspectives. Some terms and concepts remain contested, and variations in interpretation are expected. Our aim is to provide a foundation for continued learning and reflection, helping colleagues build confidence in using inclusive language. The glossary will remain a living document — updated, refined, and expanded as our collective understanding of EDI develops.

This glossary is designed for use by WMS faculty when responding to queries or developing inclusive workshops, teaching sessions, and educational materials. It includes commonly used terms in our work but is not intended to be an exhaustive list. We view this glossary as a dynamic resource to support colleagues in developing their understanding of language related to inclusive practice. The glossary aims to provide a foundation for building baseline knowledge of key inclusive practice concepts and to encourage individuals to explore these topics further.

Ultimately, we hope this resource supports all members of the WMS community in contributing to a culture where diversity is recognised, valued, and celebrated.

If you have any feedback or suggestions you would like to make, please get in touch with the Awarding Gap Group:

Awarding Gap Group Chair: Professor Olanrewaju Sorinola (olanrewaju.sorinola@warwick.ac.uk)

Awarding Gap Group Secretary: Laura Cranshaw (l.cranshaw@warwick.ac.uk)

References

Khuri, S., Patel, S., Baker, K., Mutili, F., Griffiths, M., Puri, N. and Kilner, T. (2024) Inclusive Practice Glossary for Facilitators. Collaborative Capacities. Available at: https://collaborativecapacities.com/wp-content/uploads/Inclusive_Practice_Glossary_for_Facilitators-March2024.pdf [Accessed: 17^th October 2025]

Stonewall. (2025). LGBTQ+ terms: inclusive glossary and definitions. Available at: https://www.stonewall.org.uk/resources/list-lgbtq-terms [Accessed: 17^th October 2025]

Glossary of Inclusive Practice Terminology

Archive

Useful resources