A senior academic at the University of Brighton has been appointed to lead a major review into inequality in Brighton and Hove.
Polly Herbert, Head of Initial Teacher Education at the university, has been named independent chair of Brighton & Hove City Council’s Review of Inequality and Life Outcomes.
The city-wide programme will examine the causes and impacts of inequality and identify actions to improve residents’ life chances. It was agreed by the council in October 2025 and will bring together lived experience, research evidence and views from communities, employers and public institutions.
Polly has more than 20 years’ professional experience in education, as well as lived experience of growing up in poverty in Brighton and Hove. A local resident, she grew up in Moulsecoomb in a single-parent family and has spoken widely about the long-term impact deprivation can have on confidence, health and opportunity.
At the University of Brighton, she leads strategy, quality and governance across teacher education programmes and chairs a regional partnership representing more than 600 schools.
Speaking about her appointment, Polly said: “I’m delighted to take on the role of independent chair of this review, which represents a significant opportunity for Brighton & Hove to place lived experience at the centre of meaningful change.
“As an academic and educator at the University of Brighton, I see every day the difference that inclusive policy, partnership and opportunity can make. I’m committed to working with communities and institutions across the city to ensure the review produces credible and impactful recommendations.”
Angela Glynn, Dean of the School of Education, Sport and Health Sciences at the University of Brighton, said: “I’m delighted to congratulate Polly on her appointment as independent chair of the Review of Inequality and Life Outcomes. Her leadership, insight and commitment to putting lived experience at the heart of decision-making reflect the very best of the University of Brighton.
“As a university shaped by its place and people, we have a long-standing dedication to widening opportunity, challenging disadvantage and using knowledge to make a positive difference. Polly’s appointment is a powerful example of how our staff and students contribute to meaningful change in our city and beyond.”
The review will now move into its next phase, including panel recruitment and wider stakeholder engagement.
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