The University has a policy committed to creating an environment where differences are valued and equality of opportunity is available to all staff, students, and any stakeholder. The policy defines certain actions which impact on the consistent application of equality and diversity and identifies ‘protected characteristics’ which are rights that all individuals possess which the university considers should be safe guarded irrespective of who the individual is or his/her position within the University. This policy supports SDG 5, which aims to achieve gender equality and empower all women, by addressing discrimination and promoting equality of opportunity and fairness for all staff and students, regardless of their age, disability, marital status, family circumstances, race, religion or belief, and gender. The policy also provides a framework for handling complaints of discrimination or harassment, ensuring that any member of the University community found responsible for inciting, perpetrating, or colluding with discrimination may face disciplinary action.