Equality Scheme & Objectives

The Open University Equality Scheme 2022–2026

Our equality scheme 2022-2026 sets out how as an organisation we are committed to developing an inclusive university community. Through our equality objectives we aim to eliminate unlawful discrimination, harassment and victimisation, to promote and advance equality of opportunity and to promote and foster good relations between people.

The equality scheme incorporates the following characteristics and circumstances: age, care and dependency, disability, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, political opinion, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex and sexual orientation.

Equality Scheme 2022-2026

The Institutional EDI Plan 2022-2027

Our Institutional Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) Plan defines the strategic direction for EDI at The Open University and provides support and guidance for all our staff and students. The objectives and actions are designed to cover specific issues that impact the OU community so that everyone is empowered to promote equity, value diversity and foster an inclusive culture.

Institutional EDI Plan 2022-2027

Each faculty and unit at The Open University produces an annual equality action plan that sets out their objectives for the next 12 months. Progressing these plans ensures that we comply with the Equality Act and demonstrates our ambition and commitment to equality and diversity.

The Open University in Scotland: Public Sector Equality Duty Report - April 2017

This report evidences how The Open University (OU) and in particular The Open University in Scotland (OUiS) meets or exceeds its obligations under the Equality Act 2010 and meets the general and the specific duties set out in the requirements for the Public Sector Equality Duty (PSED), which came into force in 2011 (2012) in Scotland.