Spotlight on University’s role in tackling inequalities
As Manchester Met continues to celebrate its 200th anniversary, the University has launched its last area of strength, Tackling Inequalities, which underscores the commitment to a fairer and more inclusive society through education, research and social impact.
Throughout November and December, the University will be showcasing how it is transforming lives by creating routes into and through higher education to improve social mobility. There will also be a light shone on the research which is rooting out inequality and inequity.
Earlier this year, Manchester Met celebrated the launch of its Inclusive and Diverse Culture Strategy, which highlighted the steps it is taking to be an intentionally inclusive University. Recognised as the top-performing institution for Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) and awarded the Aziz Inclusion Award for 2024, its efforts highlight a welcoming environment where everyone – colleagues and students alike – feel they belong.
Manchester Met’s diverse student body reflects our commitment to accessibility, with nearly half being the first in their families to attend university.Through its First Generation Scholarship Programme, more than 800 students have been supported into, through and beyond university, with the aim of reaching 1,000 participants by 2025.
Through the new Institute for Children’s Futures, the University will address issues facing young people, partnering with regional stakeholders like the Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA). Additionally, Dr Krystal Wilkinson’s work on inclusive workplace policies has led regional employers to better support women’s health on issues including fertility, menopause and perinatal mental health.
In the youth justice arena, Professor Hannah Smithson and Dr Deborah Jump are reshaping policies to better protect vulnerable youth. Their work has influenced practices within Youth Justice Services, especially in response to challenges faced by girls in gangs and children in care.
The University’s efforts to tackle inequalities extend to diverse fields. Professor Rob Drummond’s research into “accentism” challenges linguistic prejudices and celebrates the diversity of language.
Professors Chris Hatton and Sara Ryan advocate for those with learning disabilities, with Sarah’s powerful play Laughing Boy telling the story of her fight for justice for her autistic son. Similarly, Professors Khatidja Chantler and Michelle McManus’s work to combat domestic violence, particularly within marginalised communities, is driving improvements in multi-agency responses.
As Manchester Met celebrates 200 years, the University is committed more than ever to fostering social mobility and building an inclusive society.
