Positive action and allyship

This impact report documents the Research Design for Social Impact Continuing Professional Development (CPD) programme delivered by Design for Social Impact Lab (DFSI Lab) between 2023 and 2025, in partnership with the University of East London (UEL) and the University of Bristol. 

Building on the University of Oxford’s work on Equity in Research Funding, this framework and guidance has been produced by a cross-sector working group which forms part of the Equity in Research Funding Forum. The Forum brings together research organisations and funders to focus on equity in the context of research funding, specifically seeking opportunities to work in collaboration to make a positive difference.

In this video, Julie Cheung presents an interactive workshop which explores the concept of Allyship: what it means, why it matters, and how each of us can play an active role in creating more equitable and inclusive workplaces. 

This article focuses on cultural humility, emphasizing its value as a tool for fostering inclusive leadership, particularly in the UK higher education research culture.

Dr Katy Sian at The University of York has produced this helpful guide on conducting and implementing anti-racist research practices, as part of the University’s enhancing research culture funding.

This interactive workshop, developed by Transitions and Transformations: The Black Researcher’s Journey — one of the 13 Research England-funded projects focused on racial equity and access to postgraduate education — and Diverse Minds, focuses on peer coaching circles and understanding how they can support PGRs in their career journeys.

In 2023, the Yorkshire Consortium for Equity in Doctoral Education (YCEDE) launched the Inclusive Research Network on LinkedIn; this document was produced to outline their process in developing and launching this network.

This publication, authored by colleagues at The University of Leeds, outlines their institution’s journey to improving postgraduate diversity across the university, starting with the conception of YCEDE through to discussing what can/​should happen after the project has ended. While much of this reflection focuses on Leeds, colleagues at other institutions will undoubtedly find the discussions and reflections universally valuable/​relevant.

This report addresses doctoral selection processes was developed by Yorkshire Consortium for Equity in Doctoral Education (YCEDE), one of the 13 Research England-funded projects focused on racial equity and widening access to postgraduate education.

This interactive workshop, developed by Transitions and Transformations: The Black Researcher’s Journey — one of the 13 Research England-funded projects focused on racial equity and access to postgraduate education — and Diversity Minds, will support PGRs in accessing culturally appropriate support for mental health and wellbeing.