How we work towards gender equality

We are committed to ensuring that our institutional values are creating equitable opportunities and outcomes for all groups regardless of their gender identity. We have implemented an extensive action plan to address the gender pay gap and to ensure progression for all groups of staff according to merit.

Equality, diversity and inclusion How we support How we celebrate

Athena SWAN Charter and Action Plan

The Athena Swan Charter is a global initiative that aims to support and transform gender equality within higher education and research. Launched in 2005 to reduce barriers to women’s progression, it now addresses gender equality as a much broader issue. The University has been a Bronze Award holder since 2012 and was awarded a Silver Award in July 2023. Nearly all of our Schools and Departments also hold Departmental Awards at Bronze, Silver and Gold levels.

Action plan

We have a comprehensive set of actions to implement across the University.

Women@Surrey

The Women@Surrey staff network explores issues specific to those who identify as women at the University and provides social support in both a professional and personal capacity. The group also feeds into the Equality, Diversity and Inclusion forum and other communication networks to inform development and progress of our Gender Equality and Gender Pay Gap Action Plan.

Two women talking at a desk

Mentoring scheme

Our mentoring scheme is designed to support staff with career planning and development, providing valuable insight into the personal and professional skills that may help them to pursue their goals.

A student smiling

Our commitment

In committing to the principles of the Athena Swan Charter, we recognise that we join a global community with a shared goal of addressing gender inequalities and embedding inclusive cultures.

Read our Athena Swan submission and action plan (docx)

Report+Support

We have a zero-tolerance policy towards abuse, bullying, harassment, hate crime and sexual misconduct. All staff, students and visitors to campus can report a sexually motivated incident anonymously or with their contact details through our report and support service. Anonymous or identifiable reports can be submitted as a sexually motivated incident and we strongly encourage the use of this tool for anyone who may need it. 

Non-binary support

At Surrey, we understand that individuals have the right to determine their own gender identity. That is why we consider it vital to help those facing specific issues relating to their identity. For more information on how we support trans and non-binary staff and students, please refer to our Trans and Gender Identity Policy (pdf).