The LGBTQ+ Network for Staff at the University

Bedfordshire recognises the importance of networks in creating a positive, safe and open working environment for staff and have made a commitment to setting up an LGBTQ Staff network open to any staff member, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity.

Our initial aim is to fully support LGBTQ staff to help the diverse University that we are to grow into an even better organisation that all staff are truly proud to work for and students truly proud to study at. A place where everyone feels free to express themselves and can achieve their full potential.

Online Coffee Mornings

Our Online Coffee Mornings are a great opportunity to meet colleagues, chat, and build connections. A safe environment for LGBTQ colleagues and allies.

Join our Teams Coffee and Catch Up here, on the day.

The Network aims to:

Provide a safe, supportive and confidential environment for members to discuss their experiences and issues they might face in the workplace
Ensure the provision of diverse perspectives on all professional issues in recruitment, employment practices as well as training and development
Work with senior management towards the elimination of possible unlawful discrimination, harassment, victimisation, and/or bullying
Act as a channel for communication and consultation between staff and the Senior Management
Assist in embedding equality, diversity and inclusion through implementation of University Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) policies, strategy and action plan
Assist the University in meeting its statutory obligations regarding its duty under the Equality Act 2010
Provide an opportunity for members to share information on local and national policy and developments
Influence policy making through original projects and research to ensure that the diverse equality perspective is proactively considered,Provide a support function to colleagues, through the development of virtual networks and meetings, where issues can be openly discussed
Develop and maintain a virtual network that provides support and promotes diversity generally within the workforce
Support the University with the training of staff at all levels so they can better understand the perspective and needs of staff from diverse backgrounds
Gain and share an understanding of the experiences of staff from diverse backgrounds, and highlight any inequalities that affect all aspects of their employment
Celebrate the diversity of the workforce by participating in national and local evens
Promote opportunities for social networking
Work closely with the student’s union on issues of common interest to promote inclusion and equality and to promote events and activities that raise the profile of the Network.

Upcoming LGBTQ Events

For more information on events, email lgbtqalliance@beds.ac.uk

The 1st LGBTQ+ Arts and Wellbeing Festival hosted at Bedford Campus (organised by Rainbow Bedfordshire ELFT)

This was a huge success with 100+ stallholders (representing local organisations) and attendees. There were a variety of performances in the theatre (including Drag Queen Aida H Dee), craft workshops and activities in the new sensory space in H Block.

We hope to build upon the success of this event and strengthen links with these local organisations.

Who are we?

Any university colleague can join the network, whether you identify as LGBTQ or you're an LGBT allys. but for accountability purposes and to retain momentum we have a small group of elected officers: