LGBTQ+ Steering Group and Action Plan
Our work on delivering LGBTQ+ equality and Inclusion is overseen by the LGBTQ+
Steering Group.
The LGBTQ+ Steering Group is responsible for defining the priorities and monitoring the progress of the University’s LGBTQ+ Action Plan.
The Steering Group meets once a term. It is currently chaired by Lilith Whiley, Associate Dean (Culture, Equality and Inclusion) for the Business School. The Steering Group is made up of staff and student representatives with a range of roles relating to policy and communications, EDI, and LGBTQ+ representation.
We are currently on Phase 1 of the LGBTQ+ Action Plan, which will take the University to August 2027.
The two-year plan sets out clear timeframes, named action owners, and success indicators for each commitment. Every action has been co-developed with staff and students and shaped by a wide range of voice mechanisms, including staff survey results, a qualitative survey of the LGBTQ+ Staff Network, feedback from the Trans and Non-Binary Staff Network and Students' Union officers, and discussions within the LGBTQ+ Steering Group. The University also drew on its broader strategic commitments, ongoing legal developments, and sector-wide good practice and benchmarking.
This builds on longstanding LGBTQ+ inclusion work already under way at ¹ú²úÄÚÉä, including a revision of the LGBTQ+ Steering Group's Terms of Reference, new Chair Role Descriptions, and renewed recruitment for active Steering Group membership.
Phase 1 of the plan focuses on four priority areas:
- Leadership and Culture
- Policies, Processes and Practices
- Data Gathering and Progress Monitoring
- Communication and Awareness
Underpinning all four is a commitment to robust, evidence-based data, supported by a dedicated data plan for the next two years. Complementary actions include the introduction of a Trans and Non-Binary Code of Practice with an associated suite of case studies, and the addition of Sexual Orientation e-learning to the University's training provision.
The University will monitor progress against milestones on an ongoing basis, with a full review in August 2027, when further evidence-based actions will be added as needed.
If you would like to find out more about the LGBTQ+ Action Plan or to discuss LGBTQ+ inclusion at ¹ú²úÄÚÉä, please email the EDI Team at edi.unit@sussex.ac.uk.