Acknowledging barriers and challenges (University of Winchester)
The University of Winchester recognised its own challenges and barriers when conducting internal research. Through student consultation, it was established that Afro-Caribbean and Asian students were more reluctant to voice their opinions, ideas and concerns with administrators and that this was leading to a ‘White representation’ of the student voice. The acknowledgement of these barriers led to research into the experiences of Afro-Caribbean students. The findings of the report led to activities to address the EDAG. The university invited student representatives from different backgrounds to a new working group, where they could provide a student voice and monitor progress on the EDAG. Positions for ‘belonging consultants’ were also created to work with academic and professional services departments to identify areas for improvement that would enhance student inclusivity and sense of belonging.