How Equality and Diversity works at Essex

Working with the Equality and Diversity Committee (EADC), Equality and Diversity has a major input into establishing equality policy at the University. Equality and Diversity advises the University and the EADC as well as departments and sections on good equality practice and the requirements and responsibilities arising from equality legislation. The University has a single Equality Policy and Strategy which provides a clear vision of our commitment to put equality and diversity at the heart of everything we do.

In accordance with the Equality Act 2010, the University has published a range of both qualitative and quantitative information that demonstrates how it has given due regard to the need to eliminate discrimination, harassment and victimisation, advance equality of opportunity and foster good relations. The information page of this web site also contains details of the information gap analysis undertaken and the steps the University is taking to fill those gaps identified, where appropriate. In addition, the University has developed and published its equality objectives (opens PDF).

Equality and Diversity also run equality and diversity training and there are a range of equality and diversity courses and briefings on offer or on request.

The Equality and Diversity Officer is Chair of the Harassment Advisory Network (HAN). The University of Essex is a great place to work and study – a friendly, welcoming community for both staff and students. However, occasionally people experience inappropriate treatment or unwelcome behaviour. If you contact the HAN, a trained adviser will listen to you and offer advice on possible ways of resolving the issue without any obligation or commitment on your part to take that advice. A Harassment Adviser will also advise you of the support that is available to you. For further details, see the guidelines for dealing with harassment.

Equality and Diversity are happy to help with any questions or concerns relating to equality, diversity, harassment or discrimination – see the who to contact section of this web site to find the relevant person to help with your enquiry.