Athena SWAN

What is Athena SWAN?

Through Athena SWAN, NHLI aims to promote equality for all in the workplace by providing support, training and networking events. The Athena SWAN Charter and Awards enable organisations to demonstrate their commitment to, and progress on, equality and diversity by recognising advancement of gender equality, representation, progression and success for all. The NHLI is committed to promoting equality for all within the workplace and creating a diverse, inclusive and supportive working environment for all staff and students through its Athena SWAN programme. We currently hold an Athena SWAN silver award.

Advance HE’s Athena SWAN Charter was established in 2005 to encourage and recognise commitment to advancing the careers of women in science, technology, engineering, maths and medicine (STEMM) employment in higher education and research. In May 2015 the charter was expanded to recognise work undertaken in arts, humanities, social sciences, business and law (AHSSBL), in professional and support roles, and for trans staff and students. The Charter now recognises work undertaken to address gender equality more broadly, and not just barriers to progression that affect women.

What have we achieved?

• New Scientists Day initiative - a chance for those new to NHLI to present their research and network
• NHLI Athena Lectures - launched in 2016 to increase the profile and visibility of female academics
• Mentoring scheme - NHLI is part of the Faculty of Medicine scheme which is open to all staff and research students
• Annual Bring Your Child to Work Day - a chance for your children to join you at work and find out more about research at NHLI
• NHLI Foundation Travel Awards – funding for conferences and for caring costs
• Athena SWAN embedded across NHLI activities e.g. standing item on meeting agendas
• Support for flexible working 
• Ensuring annual PRDP meetings are held to support career development
• Video conferencing facilities to enable staff and students to take part in meetings remotely
• Provision of Equality, Diversity, Harassment and Bullying workshops
• Faculty of Medicine Ambassador for Women to help identify and encourage women to apply for key external appointments

How do I get involved?

NHLI’s Athena programme is implemented and monitored by the NHLI Equality Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) Committee. Find out more about the NHLI Athena SWAN representatives.

For any enquiries related to NHLI’s Athena SWAN activities, please contact the NHLI EDI Committee.