Vice-Chancellor Professor Colin Riordan’s statement on the Independent Review into issues of Racial Equality at Cardiff University’s School of Medicine - 25 January 2017

Vice-Chancellor Professor Colin Riordan’s statement regarding the Independent Review into issues of Racial Equality at Cardiff University’s School of Medicine.

Responding to the report Cardiff University’s Vice-Chancellor Professor Colin Riordan said: “I am extremely grateful to Professor Bhugra and his panel for producing such a comprehensive and thorough report.

“When the University asked Professor Bhugra to conduct a review we wanted a panel of independent experts to shine a light on equality and diversity at Cardiff University’s School of Medicine to ensure we are a place where all students and staff can thrive irrespective of their background.

“Whilst the review was prompted by an incident involving our medical students this was not about pointing the finger of blame or repeating the investigation undertaken by the University - rather it was about highlighting important areas of change that will help avoid similar incidents in the future.

“As a University we accept the report’s recommendations and are already undertaking a number of proactive measures to address them. It is important that we take the time to take stock and develop the appropriate policies and procedures in response. We fully accept, however, that we must do more.

“I welcome the fact that the report recognises that the University has many good policies and initiatives in the area of equality and diversity and their recommendations are an attempt to enhance and support the action already being taken.

“I am also reassured that the report reinforces the point that students and staff feel sufficiently empowered to raise these issues.

“Our message is clear: offensive stereotyping of any person, or group of persons, is not acceptable. Cardiff University takes issues relating to equality and diversity very seriously and is committed to supporting, developing and promoting equality and diversity in all of our activities.”