The British Science Association is delighted to announce that it has received funding from the Wellcome Trust under the Sustaining Excellence grant scheme. The scheme gives long-term support to organisations who have been previously funded by the Wellcome Trust to increase the impact of their public engagement projects and develop new ways of working.

The grant will support the BSA’s mission to transform the diversity and inclusivity of science. We will start by reflecting on our organisation and processes, to look at what works well, and what steps we can take to improve. We will be sharing our learning throughout and will be supporting others in the science engagement sector to try more inclusive approaches as the project progresses.

Katherine Mathieson, Chief Executive of the BSA said:
“Diversity is one of the biggest challenges and opportunities we face for achieving our vision of science at the heart of culture and society. My British Science Association colleagues and I are really excited by this chance to develop our organisation and form new partnerships that will make a genuine and long-lasting difference. We really value input from other individuals and organisations, so please get in touch if you’d like to learn more about the work.”

Matt Locke, Deputy Chair of the BSA said:
“I am delighted that the Wellcome Trust supports the British Science Association’s mission around diversity and inclusion. There is real energy, ambition and commitment from staff and Trustees, and I am looking forward to working with colleagues and partners on this important issue”

The BSA has hired Tina Fahm as Diversity Advisor, to help develop the initial phase of the project alongside other colleagues in the BSA’s Cultural Development team. You can read more about the BSA’s current activities here. Look out for more announcements as this work progresses, and contact us if you’d like to be involved.