National Day for Staff Networks
News
BSU celebrates National Day for Staff Networks
Wednesday, 14 May, 2025The National Day for Staff Networks is the world’s only nationwide day dedicated to recognising networks and resource groups and the incredible value they add to the workplace. Observed on 14 May this year, the day invites everyone to celebrate the value that employee networks bring to the workplace.
Launched in 2017, the National Day for Staff Networks highlights the multiple benefits that staff networks provide. According to NDSN, 66 percent of workers believe that staff networks help to foster an inclusive environment and 70 percent of young people are more likely to apply to organisations with staff networks.
BSU has a number of staff networks which give colleagues a chance to come together in support of each other to promote diversity, equality and inclusion. Members provide peer-to-peer support, get involved with planning events, and take part in policymaking.
BSU Equalities Project Officer, Ayesha Chawdhry Manek said:
“Staff networks are vital as they provide a safe and positive environment for our staff, build community and advocate for equity, diversity and inclusion. We have witnessed firsthand the positive impact these networks have on our policies and spaces.”
This year, the University has launched two new staff networks – the Women’s Health Network and the Staff and Black Academics Network – to further broaden the scope of collaboration and support offered.
Dr Rebecca Feasey, chair of the new Women’s Health Network, said:
“I am really excited to be setting up the Women's Health network, and I cannot wait to schedule all manner of themed sessions on the back of staff interest and requests, with the potential for awareness raising, support, discussions but also creative making and play.”
Dr Emmanuel Nartey, chair of the Staff and Black Academic Network, said:
“I’m honoured to be leading the Staff and Black Academic Network – a space where BSU staff and Black academics come together to connect, share, and grow. Through talks, workshops, cultural events, and creative sessions, we’ll build a supportive community rooted in inclusion, reflection, and collective empowerment.”
The network chairs also kicked off the National Day for Staff Networks with a special breakfast at Newton Park where colleagues could come along, meet the chairs and find out more about the University’s various staff networks.
Summing up the importance of staff networks, Ayesha said:
“The value of our staff networks is evident as it has led to the creation of two additional networks. I am fortunate to work with a group of dedicated, amazing and wonderful co-chairs who are committed to championing their networks and their members.”