USW achieves Athena SWAN Bronze Renewal Award

The University of South Wales (USW) has been reaccredited with the Athena SWAN Bronze Award, reaffirming its ongoing commitment to advancing gender equality across the institution.

Athena SWAN, part of Advance HE’s Gender Charter, recognises the efforts of higher education institutions to promote equality, diversity and inclusion.  The Charter itself has undergone significant evolution from the 2019 framework, through the revised model introduced in 2021, to the most recent guidance released in January 2025. As Athena SWAN has developed, so too has USW’s approach. The University has moved from focusing primarily on gender equity for academic staff to adopting a more inclusive institutional perspective that considers the experiences of all staff and students. 

USW first received the Athena SWAN Bronze Award in 2020. Retaining the award through the latest reaccreditation demonstrates continued progress and a sustained commitment to meaningful change. 

Since first achieving the award, the University has implemented a range of initiatives to drive improvement, including Women’s Leadership Development Programme, establishment of Wales Women in Stem network, enhanced intersectional equity work illustrated through achievement of Race Equality Charter Bronze award and Development of Entrepreneurial Women program.  

Professor Louise Bright said ‘Retaining our Athena SWAN award signals our genuine commitment to creating an environment where talent can thrive irrespective of gender. This award is not just a badge — it reflects sustained action to tackle barriers, improve representation, and ensure fairness across teaching, research, leadership, and our everyday culture. It is now important that we continue to listen to our people and implement meaningful change that strengthens the whole USW community. A massive thank you to every single person who has played a role in this achievement.’