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‘UWE’s Equity programme is changing the racial narrative’
Changing the racial narrative locally and nationally is the aim of the University of the West England’s Equity programme, tasked with re-framing conversations around race equality.
A 2017 report titled ‘Bristol: a city divided?’ issued by the race equality think tank Runnymede, highlights ethnic minority disadvantage in education and employment in Bristol. On a national level, there is an ethnicity pay gap of 23 per cent between black, asian and minority ethnic graduates and their white counterparts. In addition to this, labour market insight evidences significant racial differences in graduate unemployment and professional level employment.
The programme has been a great success, and is entering it’s second year
UWE’s Equity programme is a practical response to these statistics, a talent development programme to improve career progression of black, asian and ethnic minority students after graduating university. Events, workshops and employability provision aim to improve employment outcomes for all students, regardless of race and ethnic background.
is needed now More than ever
Equity has included mentoring in its provision as well. It is a key component of the programme, and is a positive action career development initiative for undergraduate students of black, asian and minority ethnic background. Engaging with regional organisations and professional networks, the scheme identifies and recruits mentors to work with students, helping students through coaching and guidance to instil confidence, develop skills and provide access to professional networks.
The scheme has been a resounding success, creating real impact. Now in its second year, it has been extended to all faculties to increase mentoring opportunities and provision for undergraduates, and both employers and students have cited the programme as being of mutual benefit.
UWE wants more Bristol employers to mentor students from black, asian and minority ethnic backgrounds
In order to continue to address and challenge the difference in graduate outcomes and the ethnicity pay gap, UWE Bristol Equity programmes seek to work with a range of external partners.
Please contact uwementoring@uwe.ac.uk for more information; UWE Bristol is committed to inclusivity and equal opportunity, ensuring that programmes and support is offered to make sure all students succeed.
Jessica Tomico is the external relations project development manager at UWE Bristol.
Read more: Conversations about racism in Bristol
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