The aim of this paper is to present and interpret the findings of a recent questionnaire-based survey amongst staff working in higher education, which was concerned to explore the impact of cultural and religious diversity upon their working practices. We were also interested to find out in which areas staff felt that they required support. Many staff are concerned that they cannot work effectively because they do not have sufficient knowledge about different cultures and religions. Others are worried that they may unwittingly discriminate against a student on cultural or religious grounds from a position of ignorance. The paper argues that HEIs have a responsibility towards both students and staff to couple the financial and policy driven requirements of widening participation and internationalisation with adequate training and institutional support. (Contains 10 notes.)