The University of Hull has signed a national pledge to help more young people from less advantaged backgrounds access higher education.
The #GTRSBintoHE pledge – which encompasses Gypsies, Travellers, ROMA, Showmen and Boaters – is focused on raising the aspirations of young people through exciting and challenging opportunities, with the goal of increasing their awareness of - and participation in - further and higher education.
There are very few Gypsy, Traveller and Roma (GTR) university students and graduates in the UK, with an estimated average of 200 members of the communities in higher education at any one time.
Professor Becky Huxley-Binns, Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Education at the University of Hull, said: “I am so proud to be representing my institution in launching the GTRSBintoHE pledge.
“This pledge is much more to us than a suite of actions, targets or milestones – it goes to the core of our mission and our passion for social justice and ensuring that higher education is an enabler and not a barrier to the GTRSB communities.
The pledge aims to increase social mobility, enhancing the opportunities for members of these ethnic minority populations and supporting equality for all.
The University of Hull’s Strategy 2030 recognises that to achieve a more equitable and sustainable society, inclusive social and economic development is essential; this is the case both for the Humber region and globally.
Persistent injustices exist across many different areas of society, including: the inhumanity of modern slavery and exploitation; inequalities in education and health outcomes; and regional disparities in employment opportunities and economic security.
This is why the University is motivated by the desire to lead creative change at the forefront of social justice.
The University of Hull also recognises the unique individual experiences of Gypsy, Roma, Traveller, Showman and Boater students, and how these may inhibit access and participation in higher education.
It will seek to encourage access and participation, and fulfil the commitments of the Pledge.
Read here for more information on how the University of Hull will deliver on its pledge.