We've achieved Silver in the Race Equality Charter

Here at the University of Birmingham we’ve been awarded Silver in the Race Equality Charter (REC), recognising our sustained commitment to tackling racial inequalities and creating a more inclusive environment for students and staff.

Previously, only seven universities across the UK had achieved Silver, making this a significant national milestone. For our community, it reflects years of partnership, listening, and action — particularly shaped by the voices of our students.

Many of you contributed to our Race Equality Charter student survey and focus groups in 2025, helping us build a deeper understanding of race equity on campus and identify where change is needed. Your insights have directly informed improvements to student experience, representation and support.

We’re proud to have the second most diverse student population among Russell Group universities outside London. Diversity at Birmingham is not just reflected in student numbers, but in the everyday life of our campus — from teaching and research to societies, events and student leadership.

We’re also working to further widen participation in higher education:

• The Birmingham Scholar programme now supports over 3,000 students from underrepresented backgrounds, with more than 70% of scholars from minority ethnic communities.
• We have launched two cohorts of the 125th Black British Researcher Programme, offering over 20 fully funded scholarships to address the underrepresentation of Black students in UK doctoral education.
• We’re one of a few universities in the UK with a dedicated Student Equality, Diversity and Inclusion team, demonstrating our institutional commitment to building an inclusive student experience.

Creating an inclusive campus also means ensuring students feel seen and valued in everyday life. We actively support students in celebrating faith and cultural events across campus, including Holi, Ramadan, Diwali, Hannukah, and Christmas. Keep an eye on our student event listing to join in the celebrations.

We’ve also strengthened the inclusivity of our catering offer, expanding halal options and partnering with minoritised ethnic-owned suppliers to better reflect our diverse community.

Looking ahead, we’ll be hosting the Living Black at University Conference in 2027, contributing to national conversations around race-inclusive student accommodation and belonging.

Achieving Silver is not the end of our journey — it is a recognition of progress and a commitment to continue improving. This award reflects the collective efforts of our students, staff and partners who continue to shape a university where everyone can thrive. Together, we are building a campus that not only reflects the diversity of our community, but actively supports equality, belonging and opportunity for all.