School of Health and Social Work awarded Silver Athena Swan Charter for gender equality

The School of Health and Social Work has been granted a prestigious Silver award in the Athena Swan Charter, joining a select group of institutions recognised for their commitment to advancing gender equality.

Awarded by Advance HE and originally established in 2005, the Athena Swan Charter recognises departments that actively address gender equality and promote greater inclusivity for people in all roles, of all gender identities, and those facing intersectional inequalities. Departments undertake a thorough self-assessment to identify gender-related issues and implement action plans to address inequalities over a five-year period. To achieve recognition, they must demonstrate tangible progress and success through their initiatives and evidence-based action plans, promoting more equitable and inclusive environments.

The Silver Award, valid until January 2030, underscores the School’s dedication to creating a diverse and equitable environment for staff and students.

Dr Julia Warrener, Interim Dean of the School of Health and Social Work, says:

"Retaining our Silver Athena Swan Award is a significant achievement for the School of Health and Social Work, benefiting both our students and staff. This award recognises our ongoing commitment to promoting greater equality and equity across the diverse communities within the School. We are immensely proud of this milestone.

Our new action plan for 2025-2030 is tailored to meet the needs of key communities, including male staff, part-time female staff, and staff with disabilities, ensuring our response continues to evolve and improve. I am deeply grateful to everyone who has contributed to HSK’s Athena Swan success. Thank you!"

Receiving the Silver award underscores several important advancements made by the School of Health & Work including:

• Diversity in committees: The Equality, Wellbeing, and Inclusivity Committee (EWIC) prioritised diversity, incorporating individuals with intersecting identities.
• Inclusive representation: Efforts to align EWIC membership with the broader School profile
• Innovative training: Nursing simulation training was redesigned to challenge gender assumptions and promote inclusivity, inspired by student feedback.
• Improved gender balance: Outreach initiatives improved the gender balance in applications, with male and female ambassadors supporting recruitment in traditionally female-dominated disciplines.

Read more about the University of Hertfordshire’s equality, diversity and inclusion charter marks, awards and affiliations.