Advance HE has launched a new, sector-wide research study to evaluate the impact of the Race Equality Charter (REC), marking a significant milestone in our ongoing commitment to advancing race equality across higher education institutions.
The Impact Evaluation 2026 will assess how effectively the REC is supporting institutions to achieve their equality objectives and deliver meaningful change. The study comes five years after the last major review, which led to substantial improvements in REC guidance, processes and materials, culminating in the launch of an updated Charter framework in July 2023.
This latest evaluation will build on that work, providing fresh insights into how institutions are engaging with the revised REC and the outcomes achieved.
Independent research partner appointed
The Institute for Equity, University Centre is appointed to carry out the evaluation, which will run from June to December 2026. The independent research organisation will conduct an in-depth analysis of a representative sample of REC submissions and engage directly with institutions participating in the Charter.
The study will involve institutions holding REC Bronze, Bronze Renewal and Silver awards, ensuring a broad and balanced understanding of experiences across different stages of the Charter journey.
This evaluation is a vital opportunity for us to work in partnership with our members to understand how the Race Equality Charter is making a difference.
“Using the REC’s own theory of change as a guiding framework, the evaluation will explore how the Charter is operating in practice and the extent to which it is driving progress toward institutional race equality goals.
“This work sits at the heart of our commitment to continuous improvement. By systematically reviewing how the REC is working, we can ensure it remains relevant, impactful and responsive to the needs of the sector.”Anne Mwangi, Head of the Race Equality Charter at Advance HE
Find out more
If you have any questions about the REC Evaluation, please contact Anne Mwangi, Head of the Race Equality Charter, at [email protected]