In response to requests for a Race Equality Charter process that understands their unique contexts, Advance HE has launched a pilot for Research Institutes and Small and Specialist Institutions. Tinashe Verhaeghe, Senior Advisor (Equality Charters), shares an update on this initiative.
Following the design phases for a Race Equality Charter (REC) to meet the needs of research institutes and small and specialist institutions (SSI), at Advance HE we were able to develop a common understanding of the challenges these sectors may face going through the Charters journey and design interventions to support them. A REC pilot scheme for research institutes and SSIs was launched in September 2023.
Colleagues from these sectors contributed to design groups that shaped the pilot that is currently underway. Their expertise in their sector and equalities work highlighted key challenges and opportunities that have been harnessed into a bespoke programme of activity and resources for the group.
Outputs from the design phase have been incorporated into the pilot including but not limited to:
- Guidance on data analysis when working with small numbers
- Innovative ways to resource the Charter work
- Opportunities for peer learning and mentorship
- Representation from these groups on panels (there will be a call later in the year for panelists.)
