Support for staff

At The University of Manchester we believe it is important that we recognise and respect how people identify themselves. We provide various HR, support and advice services to enable a fair and equal environment where everyone can achieve their potential.

Professional staff support

Our Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Team has a remit for staff and students, and provides advice and guidance, especially with regard to legislation and rights.

Our Disability Advisory and Support Service, while primarily assisting students, also includes two staff members who ensure that disabled staff and applicants receive the high-quality confidential support that they require to do their job. This includes working with job applicants, supporting existing staff, and advising staff hoping to return to work after an extended period of disability-related absence.

We also train harassment advisors and mediators, who provide confidential support and information to staff and students on issues relating to harassment, discrimination and bullying.

Staff have the right to work in a safe and supportive place. The University has a zero tolerance to bullying, harassment and discrimination and works with the Students' Union to promote this through the We Get It campaign. We encourage staff and students to report all forms of bullying, harassment and discrimination should they see or experience it.  

Staff network groups

Our staff can join various specialist networks representing different groups with different needs.

As well as allowing particular groups to meet, share experiences and discuss issues that may be affecting their particular community, these networks ensure that all groups and communities are represented at our biannual Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Forum, in which anyone can be involved. They work actively to help shape and develop our University’s strategy, policies and guidance in relevant areas.

Staff groups with representative networks include:

• Black and ethnic minority staff
• Disabled staff
• Lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender staff
• International staff
• Women in science and IT

We also ensure effective communication between staff and management through our Diversity Calendar, which promotes events across all diversity themes.