Creating a Culture of Belonging at UCC

8 Jul 2026

As we reach the end of the academic year, we want to thank all staff for supporting and contributing to our ongoing efforts to embed Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion into the fabric of UCC. In a global environment where EDI efforts are under pressure, we’re proud that UCC is unwavering in its commitment to building an inclusive university- where everybody belongs.

This work is never truly complete; creating a culture of belonging requires ongoing commitment, reflection, and action from all of us. Every member of our university community has a role to play in ensuring UCC remains a place where everyone feels valued and respected. 

The achievements below showcase the progress we have made together this year - and the momentum we will carry forward as we continue this important work. More information on the Belonging at UCC EDI Framework and Action Plan here. 

• Pregnancy Loss Support Policy Launch UCC introduced Ireland’s first Pregnancy Loss Support Policy in higher education. A research-led, sector-shaping policy addressing a critical gap in workplace wellbeing and inclusion.
• EDI in HE Microcredential A new, free microcredential (co-developed with UG and UL) launched and is returning in 2026.
  
• Women on Walls  Accenture’s Women on Walls at UCC is a campaign that seeks to make women leaders visible through a series of commissioned portraits that will create a lasting cultural legacy for Ireland. This is the fourth chapter of Women on Walls and the first outside of Dublin. Four portraits of 11 outstanding women were unveiled in November. 
• Speak Out National Data Report Speak Out is an anonymous online reporting tool allowing staff and students to report a range of behaviours, such as bullying, discrimination, sexual violence or harassment. UCC contributed to the first national Speak Out report launched in November.
• Athena Swan Awards Ongoing Athena Swan success highlights sustained progress in advancing gender equality across Schools and Colleges. In 2025-2026, five awards have been conferred so far for UCC (two Silver, one first-time Bronze, and two Renewal Bronze).
• UCC 2026 Values and Culture/EDI Staff Survey By capturing the lived experiences of staff, the survey ensures UCC’s approach to EDI is directly informed and guided by its community. With a 45% response rate in April/May, we’re working through the data and will communicate the results in the next academic year.
• EU Award for Inclusive Gender Equality in Research and Innovation UCC received prestigious European recognition for leadership in embedding gender equality across research and institutional practice, including €100,000 prize fund.

• Race Equality Action Plan (REAP) Launch The REAP 2026–2028 sets out 21 actions across five pillars - Foundation, Culture, Success, Growth and Engagement - embedding anti-racism across systems, leadership and campus life.
• Highly Commended at National Diversity & Inclusion Awards 2026 National recognition celebrated UCC’s leadership and innovation in advancing inclusion, reflecting sustained, institution-wide commitment.
• ENGAGE Digital Reverse Mentoring Launch UCC launched the third phase of the ENGAGE programme, “Digital”, which centres the voices of underrepresented students and staff, pairing them with senior leaders as mentors.
• LGBT+ Action Plan Launch UCC launched Ireland’s first university-wide LGBT+ Action Plan, setting out a measurable roadmap to embed inclusion across teaching, research, leadership and campus culture.