Unite Students, the UK’s largest operator of student accommodation, has had its equality, diversity and inclusion practices recognised by Manchester Pride.

Manchester Pride has awarded Unite Students a ‘Good Practice’ rating as part of its All Equals Charter, its programme to help organisations understand, recognise and challenge discrimination in the workplace. The charter aims to make workplaces more inclusive, diverse and equal.

All Equals Charter members are regularly assessed to establish if they follow a set of commitments and guiding principles. A ‘Good Practice’ rating is just below the highest ‘Role Model’ rating.

Dr. Christopher Owen, Manchester Pride's Inclusivity Development Manager, said:

“Unite Students is on a really exciting journey toward becoming leaders in intersectional inclusion. Their policies and procedures work well and their involvement with Pride organisations across the country is inspiring. I am especially impressed with the way they involve a wide variety of diverse LGBTQ+ voices, both individuals and groups, to help shape decision-making. 

“In future, I am hopeful they will take a more proactive approach to year-round LGBTQ+ inclusive training, campaigning and contracting, which will further strengthen the impressive initiatives and plans they already have in place.”

Sam Kingsley, Equality Diversity & Inclusion Manager at Unite Students, said:

“We’re delighted to have been awarded this accreditation by Manchester Pride. This is a significant achievement on Unite Students’ journey to become a more inclusive and diverse organisation.

“Our ambition is to aim for the All Equals Charter’s highest ‘Role Model’ rating as we continue to create a sense of belonging for all who live and work with us.’

Unite Students recently published its new three-year Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, Belonging (DEIB) and Wellbeing strategy.

What is the All Equals Charter? 

The All Equals Charter is Manchester Pride’s programme to help businesses and organisations understand, recognise and challenge any form of discrimination in the workplace. The charter aims to make the workplace inclusive, diverse and equal for marginalised people.

The All Equals Charter is a positive space for business and organisations to grow and learn. Supported by Manchester Pride’s Inclusivity Development Manager, Charter members have access to expert knowledge to develop and adapt everything from policies and procedures, to training and education offered to their workforce. 

Accreditation allows businesses and organisations to indicate to employees, clients and suppliers that they meet a set of values and principles of intersectional inclusion. There are four levels in total, Entry Level, Foundation, Good Practice and ending with Role Model. Working closely with Manchester Pride’s All Equals Charter team businesses and organisations can continuous improve and be reassessed at any time. 

How do I become a member of the All Equals Charter? 

If you're interested in finding out more about the All Equals Charter and how to become and member please fill out this form.