University Wins Award for Inclusivity

Solent University, Southampton has been named National Student Pride’s ‘LGBT+ Inclusive University of the Year’ for putting inclusivity and diversity firmly on the agenda.

A spokesperson for the National Student Pride Awards says: “We are pleased to award Solent University with the ‘LGBT+ Inclusive University of the Year Award’ 2022. Firm in our mission to recognise the UK University which demonstrates a sustained effort to make their campuses inclusive and accommodating to their queer-identifying students, we are thoroughly impressed by Solent’s ‘Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) Plan 2021-2025’.”

“By including detailed testimonials, targets and commitments to affirmative action, Solent University’s EDI Plan also outlines the support that they will provide to LGBTQ+ students,” they continue.

“An example of this is the release of the University’s Transgender Equality and Inclusion Policy, which was launched in September 2021. The policy was developed by the Students’ Union and their Trans+ Students’ Officer who consulted students, and staff, who have personally dealt with issues that Trans+ people may face. The policy report outlines the support that Solent University will provide to students, and staff, who are transitioning.

On the award, Daniel Inns, Deputy Head of Student Experience at Solent University says: “It means so much to us to be recognised in this way. At Solent, we are dedicated to improving support for students, which is demonstrated through our focussed policies and pledges. We strongly believe the work we do on inclusivity and diversity is creating a positive future for generations of students to come.”

The University was also recognised for the help offered to students - including having a named contact, well-being support tailored to Trans+ issues and helping students develop an individual action plan to assist them through their time at university.

Solent also supports students through the on-campus Student Hub which partners with local LGBTQ+ charities in the local area.