The Department of Computer Science has recently become the proud holder of a Bronze Athena SWAN award in recognition of their activities and practices in relation to the Athena SWAN Equality Charter. The Department are committed to a three year action plan to implement strategies to increase further our gender equality practices. The Athena SWAN award is given to departments who recognise that, whilst they operate many excellent practices, they are willing to do even more to support women working and studying in the department.
Equality Challenge Unit’s (ECU) Athena SWAN Charter is a national scheme 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 May 2015 the charter was expanded to recognise work undertaken in arts, humanities, social sciences, business and law (AHSSBL), and in professional and support roles, and 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.
ECU’s Athena SWAN Charter covers women (and men where appropriate) in:
• Academic roles in STEMM and AHSSBL
• Professional and support staff
• Trans staff and students
In relation to their:
• Representation
• Progression of students into academia
• Journey through career milestones
• Working environment for all staff