The Athena SWAN Charter was established in 2005 to encourage and recognise commitment to advancing the careers of women in science, technology, engineering, maths and medicine (STEMM) employment in higher education and research.
In 2015 it was expanded to recognise work undertaken in arts, humanities, social sciences, business and law, and in professional and support roles, as well as for trans staff and students. The charter now recognises work undertaken to address gender equality more broadly, and not just barriers to progression that affect women.
These awards bring the University’s total to 15, including its institutional Bronze Award.
The School of Biological Sciences has risen from a Bronze to a Silver Award, recognising the commitment of its staff to inclusivity and diversity and the progress they have demonstrated in creating an environment where the contributions of all staff and students, regardless of gender, sexuality, economic or cultural background, are supported and recognised.
Dr Jon Bridle, Chair of the School's Equality Diversity and Inclusion Committee, said: ‘We are immensely proud of this award, and of the progress in inclusivity we've demonstrated in our school since our Bronze Award in 2014. Our achievement has only been possible through the sustained engagement of school members with the aims of Athena SWAN, through surveys and focus groups, and through their commitment to making change happen.’
The University of Bristol Law School achieved a Bronze Award – the University’s first non-STEMM subject award since the charter’s expansion.
Professor Charlotte Villiers, Athena Swan Lead for the Law School, said: ‘We are delighted to receive this Athena Swan Bronze Award. The process enabled us to evaluate our school in a constructive way. The Law School is vibrant, diverse and inclusive. Our new Equality, Diversity and Inclusivity Committee will now be taking forward plans that will benefit all students and staff in the school in future years.’
The School of Chemistry has maintained its Bronze Award.
Professor Emma Raven, Head of School, said: ‘The School of Chemistry is working hard to improve the gender balance across its staff and students, and is already benefiting from the opportunities that come from a culture of equality and diversity. The renewal of our Athena SWAN Bronze award recognises the wide range of actions we have already implemented, and we are committed to achieving even more in the future.’