Here at the University we recognise the importance of supporting our staff who are also parents through policy and procedure, to ensure an consistent experience for all.
Examples include the implementation of the Bath Hybrid Model on a long-term basis. This was initially introduced to manage staffing through Covid, but the long-term benefits of hybrid working are well recognised. We also offer training modules and toolkits around remote working and wellbeing, as well as guidance for managers on managing hybrid teams.
The Returning Parents Support Fund was piloted in 2022/23, offering up to £5,000 to help academics returning from all forms of parental leave with the transition back into work. The scheme was further trialled in 2023/24 to enable staff to re-establish research momentum by removing some of the barriers faced when returning to work. Now, we are pleased to announce the scheme will extend to Professional Services from the financial year 2024/25.
The University also offers flexible working options such as part-time, term-time only, annualised hours, flexitime, flexible retirement, job sharing, career breaks, sabbatical leave and more. This allows for a greater work life balance for those with caring responsibilities for children.
Enhanced maternity, paternity and shared parental pay are available to all staff, and we offer guidance for employees and managers on the maternity policy.
The Culture and Inclusion team supports the Parents' Network, which is run by parents for parents here at the uni. All new parents are made aware of the network by their HR representative and encouraged to join. Below is a list of upcoming events by the network:
18th June, 1.30pm – 2.30pm (in person)
Networking and HR talk
Join us for refreshments and a talk from HR on employment law changes that affect parents like you. They'll also be an opportunity to meet other parents and share and learn from others parenting experiences.
15th - 19th July (in person and online)
Our first Parents Wellbeing Week.
16th October, 12.30pm – 1.30pm (in person)
Children's mental health and technology
Join the Teams group to find out more and register for these events.
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