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What is Discrimination?

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Whether you’re a student or a staff member, discrimination is never okay and is not tolerated at the University of Cumbria, report your concerns.

What is Discrimination?
The Equality Act 2010 states that it is against the law to treat any person unfairly or less favourably on the basis of a protected characteristic. Discrimination occurs when a person is treated less favourably than someone else on the basis of a protected characteristic: 

Age

Disability

Gender Reassignment

Marriage or Civil Partnership

Pregnancy, Maternity or Paternity

Race

Religion or Beliefs

Sex

Sexual Orientation
 
There are three different forms of discrimination, which can occur separately or in conjunction with one another: 

Direct  – when someone is treated less favourably on the grounds that they are believed to have a protected characteristic. 

By Association – discrimination due to someone’s relationship to a person with a protected characteristic. 

By Perception – discrimination due to perception that they have a protected characteristic. 

The Equality and Human Rights Commission’s definition for discrimination can be found here: https://www.equalityhumanrights.com/en/advice-and-guidance/what-discrimination 

Some scenario-based examples of discrimination include, but are not limited to:
Discrimination Scenario 1, A scenario showing discrimination of a protected characteristic
Discrimination Scenario 2, A scenario showing discrimination of a protected characteristic
Discrimination Scenario 3, A scenario showing discrimination of a protected characteristic
The University of Cumbria is committed to providing an inclusive environment, where staff, students and visitors are encouraged to be their true self, in order to enhance the individual and collective experience. As a university community, we share the social responsibility of enabling this inclusive environment by valuing, respecting and celebrating differences, to ensure that we generate a sense of understanding and belonging. For more information about this, please visit our University Inclusivity Statement.

  • Further Information

    Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) – Useful Links, Guidance and Signposting

    The University of Cumbria’s Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) – Useful Links, Guidance and Signposting page provides a list of resources to support the integration of EDI principles across university life. It includes links to national and local organisations offering advice, support, and advocacy on a wide range of issues such as workplace equality, mental health, LGBTQ+ inclusion, anti-racism, homelessness, and religious diversity.

    Highlighted resources include Acas for employment law guidance, Andy’s Man Club for men’s mental health, Advance HE for sector-wide EDI support in higher education, and Agrespect, which promotes rural LGBTQ+ inclusion. Local initiatives like Anti Racist Cumbria, Carlisle Key, and Cumbria Pride demonstrate the university’s commitment to community engagement and social justice. The page also references national bodies like the Equality and Human Rights Commission and CIPD, offering legal and professional insights.

    This collection aims to empower students and staff with knowledge, foster inclusive practices, and provide pathways for support and action. It reflects the university’s broader mission to create a welcoming, equitable environment for all. For more information please visit the page here EDI Useful Links, Guidance & Signposting | University of Cumbria

     

    White Ribbon UK

    The University of Cumbria’s White Ribbon page outlines its commitment to ending men’s violence against women through its accreditation with White Ribbon UK, achieved in June 2022. This global movement encourages men and boys to take a stand by making the White Ribbon Promise - to never commit, excuse, or remain silent about male violence against women.

    The university has developed a three-year action plan, approved in October 2023, to guide its efforts. This plan is overseen by a dedicated White Ribbon Steering Group and includes initiatives to raise awareness and challenge harmful gender norms. Staff and students are encouraged to become White Ribbon Ambassadors or Champions, roles that involve advocating for cultural change and supporting others in taking a stand.

    For more information please visit the White Ribbon page here White Ribbon UK Accreditation - University of Cumbria

> I have been affected by discrimination. What should I do?

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