Working Lives policies

The University has a range of policies to support colleagues at key stages in their lives. We've included a brief description of each policy below, along with links to the more detailed information.

Adoption & surrogacy leave

The Adoption & surrogacy leave policy explains how much time off you can take if you adopt a child or have a child through surrogacy arrangements, and how much you'll be paid during your leave.

Caring responsibilities

If you have caring responsibilities there are a range of services that provide support. The policy on time off for carers and domestic reasons explains how much time off you can have if you care for someone and there's a problem with your care plans.

Career breaks

Reasons for applying for a career break might include wanting to travel, taking personal study leave or spending time with your children. You can apply for a career break once you've completed 12 months' service with the University.

This policy explains when you might be able to take a career break and what you need to be eligible to apply.

Flexible working

Flexible working is crucial to the University’s ability to recruit and retain the best staff and perform at a world-class level. The University’s flexible working policy explains what it is and how to ask to work flexible hours to help fit around your personal commitments.

Maternity leave

All female staff can take up to 52 weeks maternity leave. This policy explains how much you'll be paid during your leave.

Paternity/partner leave

Fathers, adoptive parents, partners and civil partners are entitled to paternity and partner leave to spend more time with their child.

Shared parental leave and pay

This policy explains how much time you can take with your partner to share your childcare responsibilities if the primary carer ends maternity or adoption leave early. If you're a primary carer, you'll be obliged to take two weeks leave following birth or adoption. You can share the remaining 50 weeks leave from the birth or placement of your child up to its first birthday or during the first year of placement.

Parental leave

Parental leave allows you to take a period of unpaid leave to look after your child. This policy explains how much time off you can have and how you can apply for it.

Childcare facilities on campus include Bright Beginnings which provides high-quality childcare to students and staff.

The Equality and Inclusion Unit is the centre for policy development and expert advice on equality and inclusion at the University.

There is also a wide range of information to be found at the Wellbeing, Safety and Health pages.