How Aston University complies with the Gender Equality Plan

Aston University is committed to ensuring and promoting gender equality and seeks to identify and mitigate any imbalances. Our vision is to create an inclusive environment in which individuals can operate at all levels regardless of their personal circumstances. Our success as an institution depends on the diversity of our staff and students, and we value every individual's contribution. We align with the Horizon Europe Gender Equality Plan (GEP) requirements as follows:

Diversity and Inclusion Strategy

Our mission is to be the UK’s leading university for students aspiring to succeed in business and the professions, where original research, enterprise and inspiring teaching deliver local and global impact. Our Diversity and Inclusion Strategy outlines our commitment to achieving these goals. 

Dedicated Resources

Aston has a formal Diversity and Inclusion structure which feeds into the Univerity Executive: the Equality and Diversity Forum which considers ways to improve University practice across all levels. Aston's Gender Equality efforts are led by the Athena SWAN Gender Equality Project Management Group.

Data Collection and Monitoring

Aston University analyses its gender data on an annual basis which feeds into reports that are used to inform the University’s efforts to ensure an inclusive environment for work and study and to measure the impact of equality and inclusion initiatives. Aston publishes an annual report on its Gender Pay Gap.

Training

Equality and Diversity applies to all staff and students at the university – it is not just our legal responsibilities but also the duty we have to each other to make Aston a welcoming place to work and study for everyone. The University supports its staff by offering training that tackles issues of inequality and reduces the risk of gender, race or other discrimination when making decisions. All staff at Aston are required to complete mandatory Equality and Diversity and Unconcious Bias training every three years. The Organisational Development Team offer a wide range of in-person and e-learning courses covering a range of Equality and Diversity issues. 

Work-life balance and organisational culture

Our vision is to create an inclusive environment in which individuals can operate at all levels regardless of their personal circumstances. The Inclusive Aston project draws together many strands of work from across the university. 

Measures against gender-based violence, including sexual harassment

Aston's Prevention of Bullying and Harrassment Policy sets out the Univeristy's commitment to a working and learning environment which is free from harassment, bullying and victimisation.

The Organisational Development Team offer a wide range of training in this area, including courses on: Banter in the Workplace, Consent, and The Effective Bystander.