2022 marks our 160th anniversary. We began life in 1862 as an Anglican teacher training college for women. To mark our centenary in 1962, our name was changed to incorporate the current ‘Bishop Grosseteste’ title, in honour of Robert Grosseteste, the thirteenth century scientist, philosopher, educator, and Bishop of Lincoln.
In 2012 we achieved full university status and whilst we still consider ourselves experts in education, our teaching courses now sit alongside a range of other disciplines including a range of Apprenticeship provision. We’re exceptionally proud of the fact that, over the past 160 years, our commitment to first-class education has remained consistent.
As part of BG Futures, we are home to the Lincolnshire Social Economy Hub, Business Incubator and Greater Lincolnshire Social Economy Academy and are committed to developing an environment that is inclusive, fair, open, and welcoming of individuals.
Why did you choose to sign up to the charter?
At BGU we recognise the importance of fair and ethical practice, not only in relation to our learners, researchers, staff, alumni, and partners, but to those outside our immediate sphere of influence with the potential to be impacted by decisions we make and behaviours we model.
Additionally, as current stewards of our twenty-two-acre university campus we are dedicated to preserving it - and the wider world - for generations to come, through a commitment to environmental sustainability.
Signing up to the charter demonstrates a commitment to our employees that BGU is more than a place to work; it’s a place to belong and that we endeavour to make a positive contribution to the communities we serve.
Have you noticed any positive changes since undertaking a range of socially responsible activities?
BGU recently took over the lease for the Ermine Library and Community Hub, reopening it after a two-year closure. The support for this project from the local community, staff and students has been humbling and we look forward to expanding the services delivered. The Ermine Library is registered as a warm welcome space to help those struggling to heat their homes this winter.
Do you have any words for a business looking to sign up to the charter?
If you are already providing benefits to your employees, above statutory requirements, and are delivering socially responsible activities then the charter is an excellent way to capture, formalise and recognise your organisation’s social responsibility.
If your organisation cannot currently demonstrate the minimum requirements to become a signee, then consider how much change would be required to achieve this.
