The University supports a number of identity-based staff networks as well as school/divisional EDI Champions as part of work towards building an Inclusive Sussex, where all members of our community have equal access to opportunities, are enabled to fully meet their potential, and are supported to contribute.

These networks support the University community to hear the voices of a wide range of people so we can better understand and address the barriers they face to equal representation, attainment, progression and reward. This work actively promotes awareness and understanding of a wide range of groups and contributes to the principles of collaboration and consultation as part of making Sussex truly inclusive.

Sussex staff can join or engage with staff network activities either as a member or ally, and participate in any locally arranged initiatives in their department.

Staff networks

The University’s staff networks play an important role in achieving the goals outlined in the Inclusive Sussex strategy. These networks provide opportunities for staff to connect with colleagues from across Sussex and participate in events and activities. They also play an essential role in representing the staff voice, helping to collaboratively shape policies and procedures that support equality, diversity and inclusion.

Sussex is proud to have the following staff networks, supported by the Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) Unit:

• Ethnic Minority Staff Network

• LGBTQ+ Staff Network

• Neurodiversity Staff Network

• Parent and Carer Staff Network

• Staff Disability Network

• Trans and Non-Binary Staff Network

We also have a Long Covid and Chronic Fatigue Staff Support Network (part of the Staff Disability Network).

Each network is run by an appointed Chair and some by Co-Chairs. All networks are active, hold regular in-person and online meetings with their members and organise events and training activities, some of which contribute to the recognition of key awareness dates in the annual EDI calendar. Network Chairs also attend new staff welcome events to promote their networks and provide information about how staff can join.

If you would like to find out more about a network or how to join, please visit the staff networks webpage.

The University Commitment to Staff Networks encourages managers to support members to attend network meetings and events during their working hours where business needs allow. This is part of valuing the crucial contribution of our staff networks and their important role in supporting the University to achieve the goals outlined in Inclusive Sussex.

EDI Champions

The University has a network of EDI Champions representing each School and Professional Services Division across the University.

The Champions disseminate information and best practice, raise awareness of equality and diversity issues that may require institutional level action, encourage local involvement in initiatives and help promote a culture where staff and students are treated fairly and with dignity and respect.

The EDI Champions meet formally once a term and regularly on their Microsoft Teams channel to share their School/Divisional updates and to highlight EDI related work, events and training activities. This not only helps to raise awareness of the work that goes on across the University but also encourages partnership and collaboration.

If you would like to find out more about the role of EDI Champions and who is the EDI Champion for your area, please visit the EDI Champions webpage. 

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