Since I started at the University in June this year, I’ve been encouraged to see that a number of strong equality and diversity initiatives have been put in place or are being planned. One such initiative is the Stonewall Global Diversity Champion programme which we signed up to in August. I’m really pleased that we have become involved with this programme as it’s the globally recognised standard for international organisations that are committed to Lesbian, Gay, Bi-sexual and Transgender (LGBT) equality across the world.

With the legal and social situation ever changing for LGBT individuals both in the UK and worldwide, membership of Stonewall gives a clear commitment to LGBT inclusion at the University. The Global Diversity Champions Programme provides a network and expertise to help us stay informed of these changes and the implications for staff wherever they are in the world.

From my equality and diversity practitioner’s viewpoint, it gives us access to specialist resources and expertise, improves our visibility as an employer of choice and will help us to improve our policies and practices.

I will be working with the Dean of Diversity, Professor Judith Rankin, and the Diversity Committee to support LGBT inclusion, to help ensure that people are able to bring their whole selves to work and feel more satisfied and motivated. This is important, as I firmly believe that this improves individual performance, which in turn enhances our reputation as an organisation where everyone can feel comfortable working – something which the University can only benefit from.

Leslie Platt, HR Adviser (Equality & Diversity)