EVERYONE can succeed at the University of Worcester – and that’s official.
The university was the winner of the Equality, Diversity and Inclusion award at the 2026 Better Society Awards.
The national awards recognise organisations who are helping create a better, more equal, ethical and sustainable world for all. Worcester was the only university shortlisted at the awards, alongside some of the country’s biggest and most well-known companies, including Deloitte, Greene King, Octopus Energy and Santander UK.
Dr Diana Beech, vice chair of governors, who collected the award on the university’s behalf, said: “It was an absolute honour to represent colleagues at the University of Worcester at the 2026 Better Society Awards ceremony and to accept the Equity, Diversity and Inclusion award on their behalf.
“Being the only university shortlisted among large companies and major household names makes this recognition even more special, and it is a real testament to the whole-university commitment to EDI. As an independent governor and vice chair of the board, I am immensely proud to be part of such an inclusive and values-driven community, where EDI is not just an aspiration but is firmly embedded in everything we do.”
Professor David Green, the UK’s longest serving vice chancellor, who has led Worcester for 23 years, added: “It is a wonderful tribute to my colleagues and successive generations of student representatives that Worcester has won this award and it is a true honour to be amongst the very distinguished organisations competing for this important award.
“Championing equality, celebrating diversity and promoting inclusion are vital ingredients in a thriving, successful modern society and go in hand with helping people make as much as possible of their rich human potential through gaining higher education and sophisticated skills.”
