Athena SWAN
Inequalities exist in the research community both nationally and at UWE: in the UK 55 % of part time academics are female.* At UWE, 70% are female.
UWE recognises the importance and benefit of fully inclusive working practices for all staff.
UWE acknowledges that poor working practices tend to disadvantage women more than men while good working practices benefit all staff regardless of their gender. This formed the basis for UWE to become a member of the Athena SWAN Charter. UWE has committed to follow the Athena SWAN principles.
What is Athena SWAN?
Athena SWAN is a Charter which addresses gender inequalities and recognises commitment to advancing women's careers in science, technology, engineering, maths and medicine (STEMM) employment in higher education.
Athena SWAN promotes best practice in recruitment, retention and promotion of high quality staff in Universities. Members of the Charter include Universities throughout the UK and Ireland. UWE believes that Athena SWAN will benefit all staff in all roles in all faculties and support services at all levels within UWE.
Self Assessment Team
As a part of UWE commitment to the Charter Principles, the University has established a Self Assessment Team (SAT) which includes a UWE Athena SWAN Lead Representative, 2 Pro Vice-Chancellors, representatives from the faculties, Human Resources, Research Business and Innovation and a range of networks. The main aims of the SAT are to ensure implementation of the Athena SWAN Principles at all levels (working closely with the Equality and Diversity team and representatives of UWE networks), and to prepare university and faculty/departmental submissions for a Bronze Athena SWAN Award, followed by applications for Silver and Gold Awards.
The core aspect of Athena SWAN activities is the critical analysis of UWE strengths and areas for improvement and developing a constructive action plan. The end aim is to ensure that UWE not only has policies and regulations in place but, more importantly, implements these policies to benefit all members of staff and to facilitate women's career progression.
Athena SWAN events
Athena SWAN Wales and South West regional network meeting - Thursday 4 July 2013
The University of Bristol and the University of the West of England will be presenting an afternoon of guest speakers and presentations about Athena SWAN, Women in Science and Leadership. See the events diary for details.
Contacts:
Olena Doran, UWE Athena SWAN Designated Contact [Olena.doran@uwe.ac.uk]
Vicky Swinerd, Athena SWAN Officer [Vicky.Swinerd@uwe.ac.uk]
Athena SWAN submission documents
Letter of Endorsement from the Vice Chancellor
SharePoint sites
Athena SWAN SharePoint site (members only)
* Source: heidi reports 2010-11
