Equity, Diversity and Inclusion
Equity, Diversity and Inclusion
At WMG, we are committed to breaking down social, cultural, and economic barriers that can prevent people from working, studying, and succeeding.
We value our diverse staff and student community, and we strive to create an environment where everyone can be their most authentic self. We celebrate differences, welcome and respect all perspectives, and maintain a zero-tolerance approach to prejudice and unacceptable behaviour.
To support our community, we offer fair and inclusive policies on flexible working, parental leave, caring responsibilities, and career development. Every student has access to a dedicated and experienced tutor, and every staff member is supported by an HR business partner to help them thrive in their role.
Athena Swan Charter
The Athena Swan Charter is a framework that promotes and recognises commitments to advancing gender equality in higher education and research. Established in 2005, it initially focused on supporting women’s career progression in STEMM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, and Medicine). However, it has since evolved to address broader gender equality challenges, ensuring inclusive opportunities for all.
As an Advance HE Member, WMG achieved Athena Swan Silver in 2019. Institutions and departments can apply for awards every five years, demonstrating their progress and commitment to gender equality. Our next application will be in September 2025.
Our Initiatives and activities
ED&I Committee
Regular meetings dedicated to supporting staff and students across LGBTQIA+, race and ethnicity, religion, disability, mental health, and wellbeing.
Clubs & social activities
Staff-led groups established for art, football, badminton, board games, knitting, and more, helping to build connections and promote work-life balance.
Support networks
Actively supporting men’s and women’s health networks, disability support networks, and menopause awareness groups.
Awareness training
Sessions on anti-racism, menopause, bereavement and stress management, open to staff and PGR students to foster a more inclusive workplace.
Mental health support
We offer mental health first aid training as well as access to the University’s Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) and Report & Support escalation mechanisms.
Inclusive spaces
Ongoing efforts to improve acoustic comfort in rooms and encourage dialogue on adapting spaces to better support staff and student needs.
Feedback forum
We host a number of forums and meetings to allow staff and students to raise challenges they might be facing and help problem solve.
Continuous improvement
We are continuously evolving to make WMG a place where everyone feels valued and supported.
Men's Health Network
WMG's Men's Health Network provides a safe and supportive space for staff to openly discuss men's mental and physical health.
By encouraging honest conversations and breaking down stigma, the network aims to foster a healthier, more resilient workforce. Supporting men’s wellbeing not only benefits individuals but also strengthens relationships, boosts productivity, and contributes to a more compassionate workplace.
The network exists to offer support, share experiences, and normalise conversations around men’s health - helping to create a culture where wellness is prioritised for all.
Women in engineering profiles
Freya Bexon
Part-time MSc Engineering Business Leadership Participant
“Don’t let anyone underestimate you. Persevere.”
Bethany Haynes EngTech MIMechE
Engineering Technician
“WMG supports women by making us feel empowered.”
Deeksha Sampath MSc MIET
Transfer Technology Engineer
"Engineering is something that enhances your life.”
Events
We are committed to promoting positive female role models to all our staff and students via a series of events and activities that showcase female excellence.
Return to work support
The department has a process in place to ensure support is given before, during and after career breaks of any kind including maternity and adoption leave.
Flexible working
The WMG Flexible Working Policy was launched as a direct response to feedback received from the 2016 Pulse staff survey and our ongoing Athena Swan activities. The purpose of this policy is to help improve the work-life balance and wellbeing of all staff at WMG.
This includes flexible start and finish times and lunch hours; remote working; and the scheduling of meetings and training within core hours.