Inclusive Engagement Design

• Inclusive Engagement Statement
• Guidance and further resources

Our Inclusive Engagement Statement

Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion concern all of us and are the responsibility of all members of our community. We all contribute to ensuring that the University of Warwick and the communities of which it is a part, become safe, welcoming, accessible and stimulating environments for all, where there is equality of opportunity and equity in outcomes, fostered in an environment of mutual respect and dignity.

We believe that inclusive engagement can be recognised both in inclusive practice, which works against historic inequalities and current forms of exclusion, and in the diversity of participants at all levels in that practice. This is reflected in our three core principles of inclusive engagement.

1. The best engagement activities strive to foster long-term relationships with clear and identifiable benefits for the community, and contribute to engaging a diverse range of staff, students, and stakeholders.

2. Engagement should be inclusive by design from start to finish. Inclusion should be at the forefront of our thinking and practice during design, delivery, and evaluation. This will be reflected in our language and behaviours throughout, in how we address issues of power and equity in our practice, and how success is measured and who measures it. Where possible, opportunities for co-design and co-creation of activity should be explored.

3. We acknowledge that our position as a university historically and currently affords our voices more privilege and power. We will work to recognise all the inequalities and inequities (both historic and current) found within the University and beyond. As equal members in the community, we will strive for equitable dialogue, respect, and the inclusion of diverse voices.

Inclusive engagement will ensure that the uniqueness, talents, beliefs, backgrounds, capabilities, and ways of working of all individuals and communities are able to come together, to create a culture of collaboration and belonging, where all people are valued and respected.

Equity, Diversity and Inclusion in Public Engagement

Need advice on creating inclusive engagement activities? Check out our guide with a short video introduction to why we need EDI in Engagement, and 5 top tips to get your started.

You'll also find links to further resources and templates you can use.

If you have ideas for things we've missed please email us, we'd love to add them.