Equality, Diversity and Inclusion inTo Research

In the ever-evolving landscape of research and innovation, it is paramount to acknowledge and incorporate the principles of Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI).

The principles of EDI not only enrich the research environment but also ensure that the outcomes of research and innovation are applicable and beneficial to all.

The experiences of the under-served and under-represented are not being documented sufficiently. Without this, these groups become invisible and therefore, are often not included in the design of research and innovation projects. This invisibility not only undermines the principles of EDI but also limits the scope and applicability of research findings and innovative solutions.

There is a lack of representation of diverse voices in research. As researchers, we have the responsibility to ensure that the under-served and under-represented are heard. These guidelines have been developed to assist researchers in embedding EDI into their research and innovation projects. They serve as a roadmap to ensure that research and innovation are conducted in a manner that respects and values diverse voices and experiences, promotes equality of opportunity, and includes all, leaving no one behind.

By considering EDI in research and innovation, we can ensure that research is not only robust and high quality but also equitable and representative of the society we live in (i.e., all those who are affected by research or who can benefit from its outcomes have equal opportunities to contribute to it). We encourage all researchers to use these guidelines as a tool to reflect on their current practices, identify areas for training and development, and take proactive steps towards creating more inclusive research and a positive culture and environment. Funders are increasingly demanding more comprehensive, well designed and properly costed inclusive research and these guidelines are designed to help researchers to think about a wide range of issues they need to consider.

The National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) (2024) published its intent to require costed inclusion plans from Autumn 2024 -

“Research that is intentionally designed, conducted and communicated inclusively, produces rigorous, generalisable, impactful science that benefits the entire population. All research programmes will include costed research inclusion plans and researchers will be held to account for delivering on their plans”

This intent is already replicated in other funding bodies including the Wellcome Trust and the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC).

EDI needs to be considered and described explicitly throughout the lifecycle of a research study. This guidance is intended to provide an overview of the many aspects of EDI within the research process from inception to dissemination. This EDI guidance is a live document which will be updated as new resources and understandings emerge. In the meantime, if you have any suggestions, please contact us.

Equally we are looking to create a library of resources on EDI within grant funding and if you are happy to share yours, please contact us.