Our Staff Disability Network is relaunching: help shape its future

As part of our commitment to creating an inclusive and supportive workplace, we’re refreshing the Staff Disability Network to better reflect and represent the diverse experiences of staff with disabilities, long-term health conditions, mental health conditions, and neurodivergence.

Why the relaunch?

While the network has been a valuable resource, engagement has declined. Current members and chairs have called for a fresh direction - one that’s intersectional, welcoming, and reflective of all our voices. Through this relaunch, the network is not only restating our purpose, but also opening the door for more people to get involved.

Help us name the network

We’re inviting all staff to join the network and help choose a new name that speaks to who we are and what the network stands for. You can submit your suggestions and vote through the Teams channel. 

What the network does

The network is a community, hosting expert-led sessions on important topics, including reasonable adjustments, workplace benefits, and accessibility. The network also supports internal change by feeding into policy development and advocating for members' rights.

Real change, driven by you

A major achievement of the network has been the project led by one of its members, Simon Ward, to investigate the lived experience of disabled staff at LJMU. The report on the survey results are available via the Teams site or contact the D&I team for the full survey results. This work has directly informed the creation of the new Disability Action Plan – a university-wide framework created by the Diversity and Inclusion team to guide the university's work in this area. It demonstrates how staff voices can make meaningful, institution-wide impact. Without an external charter mark to guide universities, as in other areas (like race or gender), LJMU has taken the initiative to build one focused on disability.

Get involved - shape the future

The network want staff to get involved and participate by:

• Suggesting a new name for the network and voting on your favourite.
• Filling out a feedback form to tell us what you want from the network.
• Considering stepping into leadership - the network is recruiting new committee members (several roles are available) to help shape its direction.
• Join the celebration relaunch event on Wednesday 21 January 2026, in UG15, Student Life Building. Expect meaningful conversations, inspiring speakers, and the unveiling of the network's new name - not to mention the chance to connect with colleagues and future committee members.

Whether you identify as disabled, live with a condition, or just want to help create change, you’re welcome in this community.

Find out more about the staff network at LJMU

LJMU has a range of staff networks available to join at the university.

Find out more on the diversity and inclusion webpages.