LGBTQ+ equality

At Oxford, we're committed to fostering an inclusive environment where members of our LGBTQ+ communities can thrive, feel valued, and achieve their full potential. We actively work to create a culture of respect, understanding, and celebration of LGBTQ+ identities.

Our approach includes promoting visibility, providing comprehensive support, implementing inclusive policies, and offering education programmes.

Our commitment to LGBTQ+ inclusion

We promote LGBTQ+ inclusion through visible support and representation. This includes initiatives like prominently displaying the Progress flag, participation in Pride events, and role model and mentor programmes. We encourage and celebrate the diverse voices of LGBTQ+ students, staff, and faculty within our department and across the wider University.

Zero tolerance for discrimination

The University of Oxford and the Mathematics Institute have a zero-tolerance policy for discrimination. We have clear, enforceable policies prohibiting discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity. These policies are actively enforced to ensure everyone feels respected and valued.

Support and resources

LGBTQ+ networks

University LGBTQ+ networks provide a supportive community for staff and students, offering a safe space, regular social events, discussion groups and professional development opportunities.

• Spectra: The Mathematics Institute’s cross-departmental network focused on promoting equality, diversity, and inclusion within the mathematics community, fostering a supportive environment for all.
• LGBT+ Staff Network: A supportive community for LGBTQ+ staff across the University, promoting inclusivity and professional development.
• LGBT Allies: A network that empowers allies to support LGBTQ+ individuals, fostering awareness and an inclusive atmosphere.
• LGBT Role Models: An initiative highlighting LGBTQ+ individuals as mentors, inspiring others through their experiences and achievements.
• Oxford University LGBTQ+ Society: A student-led organisation that provides support, social events, and advocacy for LGBTQ+ students at the University of Oxford.
• Oxford SU LGBTQ+ Campaign: A student-led initiative focused on advocating for LGBTQ+ rights, providing support and resources, and promoting inclusivity within the university community.

Confidential support

We offer confidential counselling services with professionals trained in LGBTQ+-specific issues. These services are available to both students and staff:

• Students can book appointments through the University Counselling Service
• Staff can access support via the Employee Assistance Programme
• Rainbow Peers are LGBTQ+ peer supporters for Oxford students, trained to offer support on the themes of sexuality, inclusivity, and belonging.

Family policies

Our inclusive family policies include:

• Equal parental leave for all employees, regardless of gender or sexual orientation
• Adoption and surrogacy leave
• Flexible working arrangements to support diverse family structures
• Inclusive language in all family-related policies and forms

Trans and non-binary support

We offer practical support for trans and non-binary individuals, including:

• Guidance on name changes and pronoun usage in university systems
• Gender-neutral facilities available on each level of the Mathematical Institute
• Training for staff on trans inclusion and advice on supporting transitioning colleagues
• Flexible absence policies for gender-affirming medical appointments

Education and awareness

We regularly offer training sessions on LGBTQ+ inclusion. These cover topics such as understanding LGBTQ+ identities, creating inclusive classrooms and workspaces, and addressing unconscious bias.

Each February, we celebrate LGBTQ+ History Month across the University. This includes a series of events, lectures, and exhibitions highlighting LGBTQ+ contributions to academia and society. 

Pride Month in June is an opportunity to showcase the contribution of LGBTQ+ communities but also serves as a reminder of the ongoing work needed to address inequalities.

Allyship

We encourage all members of our community to actively support LGBTQ+ inclusion:

• Attend LGBTQ+ events and ally training sessions
• Display pronouns in email signatures and during introductions
• Challenge discriminatory behaviour when you encounter it

Pride lanyards and pronoun badges are available through the department or the MPLS ED&I team.

National LGBTQ+ initiatives

The department, division and wider university participate in several national LGBTQ+ initiatives:

• We're members of Stonewall's Diversity Champions programme
• We actively participate in LGBTQ+ in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) initiatives
• Our commitment to LGBTQ+ inclusion is part of our broader Athena SWAN action plan for equality, diversity, and inclusion.

Policies and procedures

At Oxford, we believe that clear, inclusive policies are fundamental to creating a safe and welcoming environment for all. Our commitment to LGBTQ+ inclusion is embedded in the University's institutional framework, ensuring that everyone in our community is protected, respected, and empowered.

If you experience or witness discrimination or harassment:

• Contact the department's Equality and Diversity Officer for guidance and support
• Speak to a trained harassment advisor who can offer a listening ear and practical advice. Advisors in the department are Bethan Cobourne, Hannah Hughes, Naomi Kraker, Panagiotis Papazoglou and Christoph Reisinger.
• Email the University's Harassment Advisory Service to confidentially speak to someone outside of the department
• Staff can use the confidential online Report + Support tool 
• The Oxford SU Student Advice Service can provide additional support for students.

All reports are treated confidentially and investigated promptly.

The University of Oxford’s Policy and Procedures on Harassment are available online.