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Success for PML with Athena SWAN award

5 August 2018

We are delighted to announce that PML has successfully achieved Bronze level Athena SWAN accreditation. 
Group of PML staff Established in 2005, Athena SWAN recognises gender equality and representation and aims to inspire a progressive, inclusive culture in the workplace.

PML becomes one of fewer than 500 award-holders in the UK, across all levels. The Bronze award demonstrates a solid foundation of equality, and is successfully gained by only 53% of applications, making it a notable achievement for everyone involved.  

Dr Frances Hopkins, chair of PML’s Athena SWAN committee said “All the hard work we have put in to our Athena SWAN initiative, with the goal of working towards an equal and fair working environment and inclusive culture for all at PML, has paid off. We are proud of the positive impact Athena SWAN has already had at PML and we will strive to continue the good work into the future.”   

Over the last year, PML has introduced regular Athena SWAN Coffee Clubs to encourage discussion on a range of subjects related to equality, including the gender-based confidence gap, positive discrimination, and returning to work after maternity leave. All events involved fruitful discussion and were well-received by staff and students alike.

“We’re delighted to have achieved a Bronze level award at our first attempt, and pleased that our approach to equality and diversity has been recognised,” said Prof. Icarus Allen, Acting Chief Executive of PML. “This award builds on our recent success of achieving ISO9001 quality standard, demonstrating that PML group continues to excel in marine science in a customer focused, inclusive and welcoming workplace.” 

A summary of the Athena Swan Action Plan with progress updates can be downloaded here.