University joins Stonewall Diversity Champions programme

The University of Bradford has joined the Stonewall Diversity Champions programme, which aims to support LGBTQ+ employees in the workplace.

Joining the scheme is part of the University’s new Equality, Diversity and Inclusion strategy and affirms the shared values of welcoming and respecting LGBTQ+ staff and students.

Stonewall states: “We imagine a world where all LGBTQ+ people are free to be themselves and can live their lives to the full. Inclusive workplaces have a huge part to play in making this world a reality.”

The announcement follows our celebration of LGBT+ History Month in February and our commitment as a University to be vocal allies of the LGBT+ community.

The Diversity Champions programme works with more than 850 organisations across the UK, providing expertise, evidence and recent best practice to help Diversity Champions meet their goals and offers dedicated relationship managers to provide training, advice and support.

Since it was founded in 1989, Stonewall has been fundamental in the fight for equal rights for LGBTQIA+ people, including the right to adoption, parenthood and same-sex marriage. They continue to work to secure rights for everyone in the community and are fighting for a complete ban on conversion therapy.

Marian Hilditch, Deputy Academic Registrar, said: “We are very proud to be joining the Diversity Champions programme just as Stonewall launch their new strategy. We share Stonewall's aims of freedom, equity and potential for all LGBTQIA+ people and will work to nurture an environment where all LGBTQIA+ staff and students at Bradford can thrive as themselves and be confident that they are supported.”