20 August 2026 
Martin Higgs, Communications and Campaigns Manager
This autumn we host a short series of webinars, each dealing with an aspect of EDI – equality, diversity and inclusion. We’ll add to these webinars as we identify more themes and speakers of interest to an AUDE audience, so that this becomes a rolling part of our annual activity. In introducing the first four sessions to you we’d like you to know that there is more to come on this theme.
An EDI focus within your team is about making sure all voices are heard and respected. At its worst, EDI becomes a box-ticking exercise, without thought or appreciation of the huge gains to team knowledge and skills and outputs when we create an environment where we can all thrive.
The four October 2026 sessions all bring a keen awareness of the overall gain to institutional effectiveness when we make sure that all colleagues are represented, heard and supported in their professional careers.
The RIBA Inclusive Design Overlay – the UCL Experience
Part of AUDE’s Aspects of EDI webinar series
20 October, 11am
Kat Aedy, Access and Inclusive Design Specialist at University College London, steers us through a case study example of using the RIBA Inclusive Design Overlay within the institution. The RIBA Inclusive Design Overlay is a professional framework that guides project teams on how to embed accessibility and inclusive design into every stage of a construction project, moving beyond basic regulatory compliance. Kat’s presentation will demonstrate how UCL's Inclusive Environments team embedded it into Estates project governance, driving inclusive design outcomes across campus projects through early engagement and user-centred decision-making.
Using Sports England guidance in developing accessible sports facilities on our campuses
Part of AUDE’s Aspects of EDI webinar series
23 October, 11am
Jean Hewitt is a well-established expert voice within circles working on issues of inclusion and inclusive design, and was involved in the publication of AUDE’s recent Neurodiversity: Design and management for Higher Education environments toolkit. This autumn Jean joins University College London and we are delighted to have that expertise within the AUDE community. The Sports England guidance on accessible and inclusive facilities is a very helpful touchpoint for us on our campuses and in this session we’ll be considering the available advice – on everything from changing and toilet facilities to wayfinding, signage and evacuation, and the principles of inclusive design that underpin the guidance.
Embracing inclusive recruitment practices
Part of AUDE’s Aspects of EDI webinar series
27 October, 11am
Sophie Crouchman of AUDE’s sister organisation UHR (Universities Human Resources) looks at the latest best evidence around inclusive recruitment. Drawing on case studies from across UK Higher Education, we will explore how universities are embracing inclusive recruitment practices – enabling them to attract a wider range of talent and creating a workplace where everyone can thrive, regardless of their background or characteristics. Sophie will be joined by a number of HR-based colleagues able to show practical policies implemented successfully, giving you great ideas on how to improve your own recruitment practice.
