My role supports our work on Equality, Diversity and Inclusion across the University and in relation to the experience of our staff. I joined Brookes in 2015 from a background in the voluntary sector both in Oxford and nationally, working on projects to promote equality and improve access to employment and study. Growing up in Sheffield, getting to university, embracing feminism, and identifying as a lesbian since the 1980s are all part of my story in being me today. Throughout my working life I have been open about my identities as part of what informs my values and experiences within and outside of work.
Being authentic and able to be yourself in the workplace is empowering and gives everyone a better chance to make a more confident and effective contribution and achieve their goals. I believe the visibility of LGBTQ+ identities across the University has a positive effect on our overall culture and supports diversity and openness of thinking and understanding. The LGBTQ+ Staff Forum and Student groups provide a great focus for support and connection for individuals and are active in raising awareness, working with allies and helping to improve our everyday practice.
Listening and learning from different voices and experiences is central to making the University an inclusive and welcoming place where diversity is truly valued, where everyone can be part of making this a reality and feel the benefits. We recognise this also means stepping out of our comfort zones and gaining new insights to ourselves as members of this community. However you identify, you can expect the University to be a safe place to bring yourself to work and study, where you can feel you belong.
“Listening and learning from different voices and experiences is central to making the University an inclusive and welcoming place where diversity is truly valued.”
Jane Butcher (she/her), Equality Diversity and Inclusion Adviser
