Disabled staff network
The Disabled Staff Network (DSN) provides a voice within the University for disability equality. The group meets officially three times a year and have a number of other informal get-togethers. The network is open to all members of staff (including PGR students) at the University who consider themselves to have a disability or long-term health/medical condition, and to members of staff who have a specific interest in this area of work.
The Neurodivergent Network is a part of the DSN and is open to anyone who has or considers themselves to be neurodivergent or their allies. More information can be found further down this page.
The DSN Co-Chairs are Rachel Heyes, Laura Howard, and Steven Pierce. They can be contacted via DSNetwork@manchester.ac.uk, or directly.
In addition, there is also the Inclusive Alliance Network. This is a peer support initiative for supervisors and line managers at the University of Manchester, aimed at improving support for disabled staff and PGRs. More information including how to join can be found on the 'Other groups' page under 'Peer support'.
Aims
The Disabled staff network aims are to:
- Promote disability equality through active involvement and consultation on the University's plans, strategies, policies and guidance;
- Provide the opportunity to share experiences about working at the University;
- Work with the Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Team to develop effective solutions to any problems encountered;
- Provide support, advice and guidance, or signposting, where appropriate;
- Raise awareness around disability equality;
- Work closely with other projects, initiatives, departments and organisations which raise awareness around disability equality.
The full remit of the group can be seen in our Terms of reference.
Meetings
The network meetings are held online, and in person.
- Winter - Wednesday 5th February 12 noon - 1.30pm
- Spring - Thursday 3rd April 12 noon - 1.30pm
- Summer - Monday 7th July 12 noon - 1.30pm
- Autumn - Tuesday 7th October 12 noon - 1.30pm
You can find more information about our next meeting on our Teams Space, or social network channels.
Newsletter
Welcome to the second issue of The Disabled Staff Network Newsletter.
The Disabled Staff Network Newsletter - Issue 2 (December 2024)
We hope that you enjoy reading all about our activities, upcoming events, and opportunities to get involved.
Neurodivergent Staff Network
The NDSN is a University-wide network for neurodivergent staff and PGR students. All neurodivergent colleagues – whether formally diagnosed or suspected/self-identifying – are welcome to join our Teams area, which we use for peer support and sharing news and events. Neurotypical allies are also welcome to join the general channel, where they can connect with neurodivergent members and share information.
The network co-chairs are Matthew Harrison, Kai Prince and Milo Theobald.
If you’d like to join the network, please use the following link (https://forms.office.com/e/0djGD1hN2w).
If you’d like to contact us, please email ndnetwork@manchester.ac.uk.
Get involved
You can join us on: