The Learned Society of Wales (LSW) medals and awards have been created to recognise the outstanding achievements of researchers and practitioners working to advance knowledge and its positive impact on the future of Wales.   The medals and awards reflect as wide a range of disciplines and areas of work as possible and were created to celebrate excellence across a wide spectrum.

To support this, in creating the new medals and awards framework, we were mindful of the Society’s EDI ambitions throughout.  This is important because we know that equity and the diversity it leads to brings with it, improved outcomes, better decision making and drives innovation.

This work leads directly from the LSW Mission and Strategic Aims which speak to promoting inclusivity and representing the diversity of our nation. 

What we will do:

• We have introduced into the process ways to ensure we treat every nomination equitably. This is all detailed in the guidance and includes Independent Members, Career Impact questions, Scrutiny Committee training and transparent, consistent scoring frameworks.
• We will mindfully promote the medals in places that will gain maximum visibility with diverse audiences and ensure our messaging is clear about who can nominate and be nominated.
• Our website shares all the documentation that supports this process and is accessible to all. In addition to the full regulations, there are concise guidance documents for the nominators and candidates to provide support to produce strong nominations. 
• Each year’s winners and their achievements will be celebrated and shared beyond the medal ceremony.
• Continue to monitor and listen to feedback to iteratively improve the process.

How you can support this:

If you are looking to nominate – please consider the traditional networks you are part of and explore ways to broaden your search and actively seek out diverse candidates.  You can nominate a candidate from any organisation or discipline – they do not have to be part of your network.

Diversity comes in many forms – including, but not limited to the nine protected characteristics. 

Consider intersectionality – the framework that recognises how these and other aspects of a person’s identify overlap and combine to create a unique perspective.   You may want to consider sharing how your candidate’s unique perspective has contributed to the achievement  you are celebrating.

What this means:

By embedding our EDI practices into the medals and awards framework, we will be rewarding excellence equitably and addressing systemic barriers. 

We will ensure that the opportunity to be nominated or to win medals and awards is open to everyone who is eligible.