At Durham, we are building an equitable and inclusive community where everyone can thrive. We recognise that change is a long process, and that we are not yet where we would like to be.
The Athena Swan Charter is a strand of this work, which focuses on addressing institutional inequalities relating to gender. These include issues of representation, progression, career development, and factors of the working environment.
As well as holding a number of Departmental awards, in 2025 we were awarded the silver institutional Athena Swan award, following our bronze award in 2018. The work is led by a dedicated Athena Swan Self-Assessment team and the implementation of a comprehensive Gender Equality Action Plan.
The Team is responsible for delivering our institutional Gender Equality Action Plan and ensuring the impact of these actions. It is chaired by the Deputy Provost and is accountable to the University Executive Committee through the Inclusive Durham Management Group. This group aims to build a gender-equal institution through policies, procedures, and practices which address inequalities and support the fulfilment of strategic aims.
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