A staff network is a group of people who have come together voluntarily, based on shared identity or lived experiences. Our networks form part of the University’s commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion, striving to foster a diverse and inclusive community.

"Having a direct report working for a staff EDI group benefits the team and the wider department. It ensures staff have the opportunity to develop their skills and experiences beyond their day-to-day responsibilities and also offers the opportunity to engage and learn from colleagues outside of the department."

Line manager of a committee member

Under the Equality Act (2010), we have a legal obligation to ensure our services and policies do not put those who share protected characteristics at a disadvantage. Staff networks help us to achieve this legal obligation by providing a safe space for support, as well as acting as experts for feedback on policy and process changes. They also help raise awareness of any areas for improvement that are needed, to ensure equal opportunities.

Networks can provide support, enhance career development and contribute to personal development in the work environment. They are supportive environments which help bring people together.

Our networks

We currently have networks supporting protected characteristics such as race and gender, as well as networks based on job function. Each network has a Terms of Reference document which sets out the aims and objectives for the network to ensure they align with University values.

• Kaleidoscope LGBTQ+ Staff and PGR Group
• aFLAME Disability Network: Staff and PGR
• Senior Professional Services Women's Leadership Network
• Parents' Network
• Mosaic Network (for ethnic minority group staff)
• Neurodiversity Network for Staff and PGR Group
• Women's Network – Career, Growth and Community
• Research Enablers Network
• Women Academics Change Agents (WACA) Network
• Carers' Support Network
• Military Matters Network
• International Staff Network

Network volunteer roles and responsibilities

Joining a network is an important commitment that we value. Employees can be part of a network as a network member, committee member or a network chair.

Anyone involved in a network will need to take time to attend meetings and events, as well as plan and execute minor project work (if they are a committee member or network chair).

Network member

A network member has no responsibility for the running of the network. They should be able to take time to attend events, workshops and lectures arranged by the committee.

Committee member

A committee member will be involved in attending committee meetings, arranging events or networking, ad hoc emails and promotion of the network. An example of the typical annual commitment is:

Network chair

The chair of a network is responsible for running the network. They will need time to arrange and attend committee meetings, events and networking. They are also invited to join Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Network (EDIN). An example of the typical annual commitment is:

Network chairs are provided with admin support from the Culture and Inclusion team.

Heads of Department/Line Managers/supervisors

We ask managers and supervisors to accommodate this commitment where possible and within reason. However, we do understand at certain times of year your team may be busier than others, so it’s important to clarify this with your direct report when they volunteer.

Further advice

To find out more information about the committee your staff member will be joining, you can request to see a copy of the Terms of Reference and role description.

If you have any questions, please contact diversity@bath.ac.uk. We can arrange a meeting with the committee chair and a member of the Culture and Inclusion team to talk through any queries or concerns you may have.