A message from our Inclusion Champion

I’d like to use this opportunity to introduce myself to those who may not know me. I am a Marine and Freshwater Biologist and joined (what was then) the Department of Biology at the University in 1992. Since then, I have done most of the academic roles within departments, including the Head of the School of Biological Sciences from 2008-2011, and six years as the Executive Dean of the Faculty of Science and Health, from 2013 – 2019. During that time, I supported the initial work on multiple Athena Swan applications in Faculty departments, and was the Inclusion Champion for Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic staff and studemts, closely working with colleagues and the Student’s Union. I am currently back in the Faculty Executive Dean role, and am now the USG Inclusion champion for Age, Sex, Gender, Pregnancy and Maternity, Marriage and Civil Partnership,

An ally for women

As a male Inclusion Champion, I’m conscious that my role in the areas of pregnancy and maternity, sex and gender will rely heavily on my being an ally for women – supporting gender equity and ensuring my advocacy extends to all genders. I recognise that there are systemic barriers that women and marginalised genders face – both in the workplace and beyond – and that being an ally to women means listening to issues they may face, using my platform to amplify those issues, and learning as much as I can about the experiences of women with regards to misogyny and sexual harassment, the gender pay gap, and the underrepresentation of women in leadership roles. I look forward to meeting with the Essex Women’s Network this year to better understand the issues impacting our staff, as well as undergoing the University’s Tackling Misogyny training that will be delivered to Inclusion Champions in the Spring term.

Men’s Health Awareness Month

As it is November, I did also want to highlight Men’s Health Awareness Month and a topic that often goes unmentioned – men’s mental health. This month encourages us to reflect on an important fact – health is about more than physical well-being, and good mental and physical health can be mutually supportive. The stigma surrounding mental health issues in general, combined with the many societal pressures that imply men should just ‘tough it out’ can lead to silence when men are struggling – and it is this silence that can be the most harmful.

Statistics tell us that men are less likely than women to seek support for mental health concerns, and that men are also more likely to suffer from depression, anxiety and suicide. This is a cultural gap that exists due to outdated norms around masculinity and what ‘strength’ looks like.

Poor mental health can affect every aspect of someone’s life – from their personal relationships, to work performance and overall quality of life. Many men experience pressure to meet expectations that are set by society, which can lead to emotional suppression. This is particularly true in academic and professional environments, where as an institution, we need to balance the need for productivity and achievement, with support for all our staff’s well-being.

I believe it is time to change this narrative. Talking about mental health isn’t a sign of weakness; it’s a sign of strength. When we acknowledge our struggles and seek support, we take the first step towards healing and growth.

Men’s health discussion group

As part of our ongoing efforts to foster a supportive environment for all, we are seeking members of staff who are interested in participating in a termly men’s health discussion group.

This group will provide an inclusive and supportive space for men to discuss health-related issues openly, share their experiences, and access resources that might otherwise feel out of reach. The goal of this network will be to normalise conversations about physical and mental health, breaking down barriers of stigma and ensuring no one feels isolated.

If you’re an individual who is passionate about men’s health and well-being, please contact our Inclusion team to get involved . The group will need a Chair and officers to begin the initial set up with some support from our Inclusion team, but anyone who has lived experience, a professional interest in men’s health and well-being, or simply a desire to support your colleagues will be welcome.