University of Chester REF2029 Code of Practice

About the Code of Practice

Higher education institutions intending to make a submission to REF2029 are required to develop and implement a Code of Practice that meets the requirements set by the UK higher education funding bodies. The Code supports clear and accountable decision-making and sets out how relevant REF processes will operate within the institution.

The University of Chester’s Code of Practice covers the institutional arrangements and processes required by REF2029 guidance, including governance, responsibilities, communication, training, equality considerations, appeals and complaints, and the procedures used for relevant decisions about the University’s submission.

Read the Code of Practice

Download the REF2029 Code of Practice

Document status: Minor amendments requested as a condition of full approval by Research England on 14 August 2026.

Last updated: Revised version (a condition of full approval) submitted to Research England on 17 September 2026.

Publication date: 24 October 2026.

Keeping the Code under review

The University will keep its REF arrangements under review and will respond to changes in official REF policy and guidance where required. Any material change to the published Code will be managed and communicated in accordance with the applicable REF requirements. The current published version and its status will be clearly identified on this page.

Questions and further information

University staff can find practical guidance and updates on the REF staff pages on Portal.

For questions about the University’s REF arrangements, contact ref@chester.ac.uk.

For authoritative information about the exercise, consult the REF2029 Code of Practice guidance and the wider REF2029 guidance.