Forum for Research into Equality and Diversity

The Forum for Equality and Diversity focuses on and specialises in research and knowledge transfer activities in the area of diversity and equality in the workplace and within higher education. With the implementation of the Equality Act in October 2010, legislation in the area of equality and diversity continues to play a key role in shaping employment and higher education policy. 

The intention is to consolidate the important work carried out in this area both across the University and nationally and provide a forum for debate and dissemination of research as well as enable the pursuit of funding opportunities. 

It is considered that such a forum  provides a formal reputational basis for the work which has been carried out to date within this area (at a departmental, institutional, and national level).

Aims and objectives

The Forum provides a ‘brand’ and identity both for the School of Law and the University in the field of diversity and equality. The Forum’s objectives include:

• Research applications
• The offering of Continuing Professional Development opportunities externally and to members of the School of Law and across the University
• The continuation of an annual equality and diversity conference within the School of Law
• Interdisciplinary and inter-faculty research linking legal and policy perspectives in projects which explore key equality issues in the  workplace and higher education
• Applied research which will bring together academics and practitioners in an evidence-based approach to the development of best practice in managing equality and diversity within the workplace and within higher education
• Fostering policy and research relationships with key stakeholders including policy makers, trade unions, employers, professional bodies and other academic institutions

Facilitating debate and discussion through publications, conferences, workshops and seminars.