Myerscough retains Leaders in Diversity status

The ‘Investors in Diversity’ quality mark is awarded to establishments who strive to improve  practices within their organisation. Myerscough College has held leaders’ status since 2017, and a fresh assessment will see that now extended until March, 2021. The process involved a review of the College’s Fairness, Respect, Equality, Diversity, Inclusion, Engagement (FREDIE) policies, procedures and practices, as well as completion of surveys and a two-day onsite review.

The Investors in Diversity Award is recognised as much more than just a highly prized and prestigious quality mark. Those achieving the Investors in Diversity Award are enabled to take a structured and planned approach to embedding FREDIE at the heart of what they do.

Alison Robinson, Chief Executive and Principal of Myerscough College, said: ‘’We have worked exceptionally hard over a number of years to advance and promote equality, diversity and inclusion both within our own college and the wider further education sector. This has included a significant number of changes to our operations.

‘’Every member of staff has contributed to our Leaders in Diversity journey by making Myerscough a warm, friendly, inclusive and harmonious place to work, live and study.

‘’Only a handful of colleges nationally have achieved the Leaders in Diversity kitemark, and as a College we are absolutely committed to continuing to make sure that Myerscough is a great place to work and study for all our staff and students where everyone is listened to, respected and valued.’’

Fairness, Respect, Equality, Diversity, Inclusion and Engagement are important issues, and are all about ensuring people are treated fairly and equally and no less favourably because of any specific need they might have. This includes areas such as race, gender, disability, religion or belief, sexual orientation and age, amongst others. By promoting equality Myerscough removes discrimination in all of these areas. Bullying, harassment and victimisation are also considered as equality and diversity issues.

Siraz Natha, for the National Centre for Diversity, was Myerscough’s advisor during the reaccreditation process, and said: “Myerscough College has demonstrated an impressive commitment to FREDIE and in a challenging financial climate continues to see FREDIE as integral to its growth and success.

‘’Throughout the reaccreditation process, the organisation has demonstrated a commitment to FREDIE and already has plans in place to address some of the aspects identified as requiring improvement.

‘’It was a pleasure to speak to so many staff and students that had such a high regard for the College and all that it stands for and I wish the College well in its future.’’

Solat Chaudhry, Chief Executive of the National Centre for Diversity, commented: “We are delighted that Myerscough College have retained the highly sought-after Leaders in Diversity Award, and I would like to extend our congratulations to their leaders, staff and learners on their success to date.”

Find out more about the National Centre for Diversity HERE