Staff Networks

Disabled Staff Group 

The aim of this staff network is to make a positive impact on the working lives of disabled staff at the University.  You can see more about the work of the group in this video.  While the video was created in 2012, the group has continued to meet regularly and make proactive change.  One member said, “I have never felt comfortable disclosing my disability to employers before I joined the University of Chester. The Disabled Staff Group has been invaluable…”

LGBTQ+ Staff Network

The University takes great pride in its ever-growing and vibrant LGBTQ+ staff network group. Members of staff who identify as LGBTQIA+ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans, Queer, Intersex, Asexual +), are invited to join.  The network takes a full and active role in the community, from advising on University policy to organising Pride and information events. The network is also an invaluable source of peer support and the network has a number of socials throughout the year. The network chair is more than happy to meet any member of staff who might not yet feel comfortable being "out" at work or engaging with the group but would like a confidential chat or advice. 

The LGBTQ+ Network is for LGBTQ+ identifying (or questioning) people only. If you would like to join this network, email lgbt@chester.ac.uk.

Women’s Network

The proactive format of the Women’s Networking meetings enables attendees to learn from each other and come up with solutions to real work-life situations. The Women's Network takes advantage of speed networking, runs Action Learning sets and regularly hears from speakers. Each meeting is themed and focuses on issues that are pertinent to women's career progression. This network is open to all woman-identifying members of staff. 

Parents’ Network

This network is a vital space for staff to discuss the many challenges and joys of parenting. This network offers a community for navigating the nuanced challenges of raising children and it does great work; from creating a page of parent profiles to developing a family leave guide for staff and managers. 

Carers’ Network

This network provides an invaluable space to discuss the challenges and joys of being a carer and the many barriers that carers face. We have a valuable partnership with the Cheshire and Warrington Carer's Trust, who regularly join our meetings to provide specialist guidance on how to access additional support. 

Menopause Network

This network was established after the successful “Menopause at Work” workshop at the 2019 Diversity Festival and has gone from strength to strength since.  A safe space to share experiences, personal stories and to meet others who are experiencing similar symptoms.  It is open to anyone with an interest in this topic.

REACH (Race Equality and Cultural Heritage) Network

The REACH Network was established in 2020 and is an inclusive group of professional services and academic colleagues passionate about raising the profile of issues of race and cultural heritage at the University of Chester.  The group provides a collaborative, inclusive and supportive environment in which to discuss issues and share experiences relating to inclusivity, diversity, equity and race equality; as well as providing opportunities for inspiration, support, networking, mentoring, and interdisciplinary collaboration.

Men's Network

The University of Chester is one of the first Universities in the UK to offer a Men's Network (founded in 2022). The Network offers a space for staff of all genders to discuss the many barriers that male-identifying people face, particularly with regard to mental health and wellbeing. In 2022, the Network hosted a conference on International Men's Day and the network has heard from many speakers since its inception, covering many varied topics - from male loneliness to domestic and honour-based violence. 

Membership and discussions within all of our networks are confidential. If you would like to join our networks or if you would like to learn more. please email equality@chester.ac.uk.