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We are proud to mark National Inclusion Week 2025 from Monday 15 to Sunday 21 September. Organised annually by Inclusive Employers, this national campaign offers a moment to pause, reflect, and take stock of how we can continue to support an inclusive culture.

This year’s theme, ‘Now Is The Time’, is timely and forward-looking. It encourages organisations to consider not only how far inclusion efforts have come but also where we still have work to do to ensure that everyone at our organisation feels supported, valued and able to contribute fully. It emphasises urgency, resilience and the need to make inclusion efforts sustainable and adequately embedded within organisations.

Each year, the theme for National Inclusion Week is shaped by wider conversations happening across society and within organisations. In 2025, ‘Now Is The Time’ speaks to the growing recognition that inclusion is not only about making sure policies are compliant, but that they truly benefit the people and communities within them. Organisations are reminded to continue to focus on embedding equity into both systems and culture, driving structural change as well as building inclusive behaviours in leaders and teams.

Inclusion at the University of Sussex

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion continue to play an integral role as we launch the Sussex 2035 strategy along with the People and Culture Strategic Plan, highlighting the importance of our long-term commitment to inclusive practices and sustainable actions for inclusion.

The University’s Open Listening Programme, allows staff to engage with difficult conversations to develop a culture of listening and understanding. Through these workshops, participants learn how to effectively navigate and respect differences.

As well as a range of optional equality, diversity and inclusion courses on LearnUpon, the university has also introduced new mandatory e-learning modules: Disability Awareness and the E6 module on tackling harassment and sexual misconduct.

The University’s Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Champions, who offer valuable support to build inclusive behaviours within teams. Associate Deans for Culture Equality and Inclusion within the faculties continue to raise awareness of EDI issues and help to promote a culture of dignity, respect and inclusion.

We encourage conversations around inclusion through Achievement Development Reviews (ADRs), which include a section on values and EDI, prompting staff to reflect on how these align with their day-to-day work.

Staff networks at the University of Sussex continue to provide support and empower marginalised communities, contributing to an inclusive culture.

Now Is The Time

The theme for this year’s National Inclusion Week challenges us all to consider the ways in which we are working towards creating a more inclusive and equitable community, through prioritising EDI and embedding equity in policies, processes and everyday behaviours, especially in times of change and uncertainty.

For further information, please visit the Equality, Diversity and Inclusion webpages.

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