Staff Disability Network coffee morning
Tuesday, 25 June 2019
The Staff Disability Network held its latest coffee morning on Wednesday 5 June. The invited speaker, Nicole Brown from the UCL Institute of Education, asked the question ‘I don't have any role models – How accessible is academia?’. Nicole shared findings of her research into the lived experiences of chronically ill, neurodiverse and/or disabled people in academia. Nicole highlighted some differences in student or staff support. She focused on her work on organising accessible and inclusive conferences. Particularly highlighted themes were inclusivity during break and lunch times at a conference, when networking opportunities take place.
This was a well-attended event by colleagues, with thirty-five attending face-to-face and nearly fifty viewing the livestream. Those in the room had a chance to reflect on what they’d heard in small networking groups.
Staff Disability network co-chair Dr Yota Dimitriadi said:
“Nicole gave us all much to think about, both at a personal and at an institutional level. I’m very happy with colleagues’ positive response to our coffee morning and would like to thank all those who came in person or viewed remotely. I look forward to welcoming colleagues again at our next event.”
The next coffee meeting will be in the autumn term. Details will be advertised on the staff portal and on the Diversity and Equality webpage.