LGBT+ equality
The University is committed to eliminating discrimination and prejudice based on sexual orientation and gender identity. We're striving to create a more diverse and inclusive university and provide here some examples of the work we are doing in this area. (pages under development)
The University has been a Stonewall Diversity Champion member since 2012, a programme which aims to ensure all LGBT staff are accepted without exception in the workplace. There are over 850 Stonewall Diversity Champions across the UK, both public and private sector organsisations, who strive to share Stonewall core belief in the power of a workplace that is truly equal. See:
The Stonewall Workplace Equality Index is a benchmarking tool for LGBT inclusion in the workplace and is an exercise which enables employers to measure, verify and improve their inclusion practice.
The Univesity was delighted to increase 80 places, ranked 121st, in the September 2019 Stonewall Workplace Equality Index, announced February 2020. This marks an increase of 200 places in 4 years we submitted.
N.B. There will be no Workplace Equality Index Submission in September 2020 due to COVID-19. However, we are still comitted to taking actions forward to strengthen our submission in September 2021. See:
Change of name and gender details - a new simplified HR processes for changes of name and gender details in staff records has been developed which removes the need for staff to produce documentary evidence and ensure that important information is provided to staff when requesting changes to their HR record.
We believe we are the only HEI to take this bold approach to support staff who cannot, or are not yet ready to make formal changes to their personal details.
Ally and Role Model Training - the University recognises the importance of having Allies and LGBT+ Role Models across the institution, and organised and funded an in-house Allies training programme, and also a Role Model training programme, facilitated by Stonewall Scotland.
Both our trained Allies and Role Models are very active across the institution. By being members of our Staff Pride Network enables them utilise their learnes skills, and pass them on to others via this media. See:
Staff Pride Network Allies and Role Models
Trans and Non-Binary Campaign - is led by the Edinburgh University Students' Association's Trans and Non-Binary Officer. The Campaign exists to provide a safe space within Edinburgh University Students' Association where self-identifying trans and non-binary students can come together, discuss the issues affecting them, and campaign to improve their student experience.
For further information and how to sign up to the Campaign's mailing list and receive regular updates, see:
Transgender: Intersectional International Conference - The University provided resource, venue and funds for the two day event which aimed to explore the diversity of transgender experience throughout the world. It was Co-organised by researchers of transgender identity and experience in Scottish universities - including Gina Maya Roberts, University of Edinburgh Stonewall trained role models and SPN Committee member. Gina, a fantastic role model for the trans community was also a speaker at the event. See:
Transgender: Intersectional International Conference