Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Policy for students

1. General statement

1.1 The University of Sheffield is committed to building a diverse community of staff and students that recognises and values the abilities, backgrounds, beliefs and ways of living for everyone. Our culture should ensure all members of the University community feel they belong and are treated with respect.

1.2 The University of Sheffield is committed to equality of opportunity and to fostering good relations with students and prospective students.

1.3 It is the University's policy to treat all students with dignity and respect, irrespective of their protected characteristics (as defined by the Equality Act 2010). The University aims to enact this in all its functions relating to:

• Access and recruitment
• Admissions and retention
• Assessments and progression
• Provision of student services and related facilities
• Teaching, learning, examining, curriculum development and quality assurance
• Research
• Community links and partnerships

1.4 The aim of the policy statement is to ensure that all students and prospective students are not discriminated against because of their age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage/civil partnership, pregnancy/maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, or sexual orientation.

1.5 The University's Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Policy Statement for students is augmented by the Student Code of Conduct and University Regulations as to the Discipline of Students. It reflects and complements the University's staff Equal Opportunities Policy,  and Staff Code of Conduct. It operates within the context of relevant equalities legislation.

2. Statement of commitment

2.1 Students will:

• respect the University's Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Policy Statement in their dealings with members of the University community
• behave in a way that meets the expectations set out in the Student Code of Conduct and University Regulations as to the Discipline of Students

2.2 Breaches of these regulations by students or staff will be fairly investigated and appropriate action will be taken. All disciplinary procedures will be fair, consistent and monitored.

2.3 Any student who alleges that they have been the subject of discrimination or harassment has recourse to the University's procedures for students. Advice may be obtained from the Safeguarding and Welfare Team.

2.4 Complaints, and appeals procedure

See our complaints and appeals procedures for further information.

2.5 Monitoring, assessment and review

The University will monitor, assess and review the effectiveness of the Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Policy Statement and the impact of all other relevant policies and practices on students. The University Council will approve any revisions to the policy.

All of the University's functions relating to student equality, diversity and inclusion will continue to be monitored and reviewed. This work is overseen by the UEB Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Sub-Group.

3. Freedom of Speech

3.1 This policy statement works alongside the principles and expectations in the Student Code of Conduct and is governed by and shall be applied in accordance with the University’s free speech duties as set out in our code of practice on freedom of speech and academic freedom.