Meet Claire: RGU's Equality Champion for Sexual Orientation

RGU appoints Equality Champions for each of the nine protected characteristics under the Equality Act 2010. Claire Young is the newly appointed Equality Champion for Sexual Orientation. Learn more about her and her work supporting our community at RGU.

Hello! My name is Claire Young, and I am a Social Work Lecturer within the School of Law and Social Sciences. I am also the Staff Equality Champion for Sexual Orientation.

I joined RGU in 2022 following a rewarding career in Social Work, where I worked primarily within the areas of Children and Families and Substance Use. Throughout my career, I have been deeply passionate about equal rights, the value of diversity in society, and ensuring that everyone feels welcome, included, and seen.

Joining RGU has provided me with incredible opportunities to actively promote these values through my role as an Equality Champion. It has also enabled me to connect and collaborate with colleagues across the university — connections I may not have otherwise had the chance to make.

In my role as Equality Champion, I focus on promoting Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) related to Sexual Orientation, which is a protected characteristic under the Equality Act 2010. We are constantly striving to improve the university experience for all staff and students, ensuring that RGU remains an inclusive, respectful, and supportive environment for everyone. I am responsible for reporting issues, gathering feedback from staff, and ensuring that this feedback is communicated effectively to the university.

One of the most exciting aspects of my role is organising events that celebrate and promote equality and diversity relating to Sexual Orientation, in partnership with the LGBTQIA+ Action Group. The group is always open to new members — whether you identify as part of the LGBTQIA+ community or as an ally.

By joining, you can get actively involved in a variety of activities and events, including the Pride Parade and LGBT History Month celebrations. The LGBTQIA+ Action Group provides staff with a voice and a safe, supportive space to discuss all matters related to the LGBTQIA+ community.

If you are interested in signing up or learning more, feel free to reach out to me at c.young23@rgu.ac.uk I’d be delighted to hear from you!

Best wishes,

Claire