Michaelmas term was a really busy time for our staff networks, marking events from Black History Month to Transgender Day of Remembrance and everything in between.

For more information on how to join any of our staff networks, visit our new Let’s Network Hub on SharePoint (Let’s Network - Home (sharepoint.com))

MAMS (Mothers and Mothers-to-be Support) Network

MAMS events last term included:

• An online discussion about the benefits and pitfalls of flexible working for women and mothers with Heejung Chung (University of Kent) who talked about her research in this area following her recently published book, The Flexibility Paradox.
• A face-to-face lunchtime catch-up for all network members to come along and chat about issues around being a mother and working for Durham University.

Women@DU

Women@DU held a joyful networking event last term, with lots of inspiration and practical tools to think about and use for future planning.

They discussed future events, wellbeing and health and safety issues, and shared inspiring experiences to help frame forthcoming project of Walks and Talks by and for women.

BAME Network

Our Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic (BAME) Network were busy throughout October with events for Black History Month.

If you missed any of the events, you can find out more here (Black History Month - Home (sharepoint.com))

First Generation Staff Network (FGS)

During Michaelmas term, FGS were very busy hosting Department Progression and Promotion Committee (DPPC) writing retreats, kindly sponsored by St Cuthbert's Society.

The retreats took into account the change in DPPC guidelines, offering people the chance to explore how best to frame their achievements in line with those revised guidelines. Everyone who took part found it a really valuable experience.

In addition, the FGS Network have started monthly walk and talk sessions.

LGBTQ+ Network

The LGBTQ+ Network were busy last term with Network meetings held over Zoom in October, coffee mornings in November and a vigil for Transgender Day of Remembrance on 21 November.

They were planning their first Christmas in-person meet-up and also planning for LGBT+ History Month in February.

Every year on 20 November, we remember and honour the lives of trans and gender-diverse people reported murdered in the past 12 months. To commemorate this event, the LGBTQ+ Network held a candlelit vigil at the Lindisfarne Centre, St Aidan’s. Staff and students came together to honour those who are no longer with us. There was lovely piano music, played by one of our students, words spoken by the Network Chairs, a minute’s silence, imagery on the screens and a good opportunity to speak with people over coffee and cake.

Coming Soon!

Our Disability network, set up just before the pandemic, will be hosting their long-awaited network launch event early in the new year.

A carers’ network is also due to be launched, so watch this space!