Positive action

Positive action is a range of measures allowed under the Equality Act 2010 whichcan be lawfully taken to encourage and offer training and support to people fromunder-represented groups to help them overcome disadvantages in competing with other applicants.

For example, if the University identified it has a low level of staff (or applications)from a certain group, such as women in STEM related disciplines subjects, it may take action to address this. From time to time the University may state on job advertisements that it is under-represented and actively encourage applications from those groups.

Positive action should not be confused with positive discrimination which is unlawful.

Where positive action has been taken to encourage applicants from underrepresented groups to apply, every applicant must be considered on individual merit and selection for interview and appointment must be based strictly on the agreed selection criteria.

The Equality Act 2010 does permit reasonable adjustments which may give preferential treatment to an individual with a disability.

We should also say that we have agreed wording for PA statements and these are updated regularly to reflect staff changes across the faculties.