We are looking for passionate and enthusiastic people to help run our staff Carers’ Support Network and the Parents' Network for staff. You do not need previous experience of chairing a network, as the Culture and Inclusion team will provide full support and guidance.
The typical annual time commitment is around 124 hours, usually split between two co-chairs (about two hours per person, per month).
If you are interested in either network role, please send an email to Sophie on srm50@bath.ac.uk to arrange a chat.
What makes a good co-chair
You do not need previous experience of networks or leadership, we are looking for:
- Willingness to lead meetings and make informed decisions.
- Ability to work collaboratively.
- Passion to develop a supportive culture, and willingness to take account of diverse views.
- Interest in leading events and activities beneficial to network members.
- Ability to manage a small operational budget.
Benefits of being a co-chair
- Leadership: Build your skills, visibility, and experience.
- Networking: Expand your connections, both personal and professional.
- Influence and impact: Help shape University culture and drive change.
- Recognition and career progression: Enhance your CV and grow your confidence.
- Personal growth: Engaging in community can contibute to wellbeing, personal development, and a sense of purpose.
Carers' Network
You do not have have to be a carer to volunteer as co-chair for this network as we understand those with caring responsibilties have limited time available to them for aditional responsibilties.
There is already one chair in post for the Carers' Network who does have lived experience of being a carer, and we are recruiting one or two additional co-chairs.
Kate Evans, a previous co-chair of the Carers’ Support Network said:
I’ve really enjoyed co-chairing the network for the past couple of years, both for my personal growth and as a professional development opportunity.
It’s been rewarding to meet new colleagues and deepen my relationships with those I already knew, as I learnt about the challenges of being a staff carer. It’s made me appreciate the difficulties others are facing, improved my awareness of compassionate communications and active listening.
Chairing the network hasn’t been a huge commitment in time; on average I’ve spent two-three hours a month on both the admin and the meetings. And it’s undoubtedly been worth the effort. I would encourage others to consider the role.
Parents' Network
The Parents' Network has no leadership in place at the moment, so this is a great opportunity to make a fresh start for the network. We aim to recruit two or three co-chairs.
A previous co-chair from another network had this to say about running a staff network:
Setting up and running Kaleidoscope has been incredibly fulfilling in so many ways, professionally and personally. Developing my leadership skills and confidence whilst supporting my community has been such a rewarding experience. I have made so many great friends along the way too, who I am thankful for every day.