Westminster’s Black History Year Researchers Network holds second residential writing retreat

During the retreat, colleagues used the opportunity to focus on their research, write papers and apply for grants and fellowships. Along with this they had the chance to share ideas, hold group discussions, enjoy wholesome vegetarian meals and take invigorating walks in the Oxford countryside.

The Researchers Network is an initiative of the University’s Black History Year (BHY) Programme and was set up to address a gap highlighted by the Research Excellence Framework (REF) in a report published in July 2021 revealing that Black colleagues are significantly less likely than white colleagues to submit their research to the REF.  

Stephen Bunbury, Reader and Associate Professor in Law who attended the retreat, said: “The Black History Year writing retreat was an incredibly rewarding experience. Writing in a community created space for focus, encouragement and shared purpose. Opportunities like this have a tangible impact on participants and directly support the University’s equity, diversity and inclusion objectives.”

Julia Hendricks, Academic Engagement Librarian, added: "It's clear from feedback that our Black researchers find these retreats deeply impactful. Having a safe, curated space in which to focus on writing, thinking as well as sharing experiences in common, cannot be underestimated. This is exactly the kind of initiative that demonstrates the University's commitment to EDI as a practice and not just policy."

This retreat directly contributes to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 10: Reduced Inequalities. Since 2019, the University of Westminster has used the SDGs holistically to frame strategic decisions to help students and colleagues fulfil their potential and contribute to a more sustainable, equitable and healthier society.

Learn more about Equality, Diversity and Inclusion initiatives at the University of Westminster.