Staff Networks Day
National Day for Staff Networks
Wednesday 14 May 2025 is National Day for Staff Networks – a day where staff networks across the United Kingdom stand together as a community and lead the way for change in the workplace.
This year’s theme, #ReadyForChange, highlights the importance of adaptability, as staff networks and workplaces respond to shifting priorities in equality, diversity, and inclusion, rapid developments in artificial intelligence, and broader global challenges. The contribution and readiness of staff networks has never been more vital!
The University has 7 active networks and affinity groups. These are:
- Women’s Staff Network
- Staff Disability Network
- Neurodiversity Staff Group
- LGBTQI+ Staff Network
- Staff Race Equity Network
- Asian Staff Affinity Group
- Black Staff Affinity Group
- Inclusive Allies Network
Jane Owen-Lynch, Pro-Vice Chancellor (Teaching and Learning) and Chair of the University EDI Enhancement Committee, has commented on the value and contribution of the staff networks at our University:
‘Our staff networks are key to our success in delivering on our EDI Framework 2020–2025 and our commitment to building and maintaining an inclusive community. We recognise the importance of staff networks in fostering a sense of belonging and creating opportunity to amplify staff voice. We celebrate their contribution today and every day of the year and would like to thank the Network leads and members for their commitment and dedication.’
We will mark the day with a Staff Networks Drop-In Social (12-1pm), inviting all our network members, allies and potential new members to come together to celebrate. There’ll be drinks, nibbles and plenty of friendly faces! For more information contact the EDI Team.
For more information about our networks and how to join, visit the Staff Networks Webpage.
Our Commitment to Staff Networks:
The University commitment to Staff Networks encourages managers to support members to attend network meetings and events during their working hours where business needs allow. This is part of valuing the crucial contribution of our staff networks and their important role in supporting the University to achieve the goals outlined in the Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Framework 2020-2025.
