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OCDEM holds a parent/carers group for all staff/students who have recently returned from maternity/paternity leave, are due to go on maternity/paternity leave, or any staff who have children or caring responsibilities. The group meet every quarter (over a cup of tea/coffee) and gives staff the opportunity to discuss their experiences, any issues concerning their return to work and provide a support net-work for one another. All staff/students are welcome and encouraged to come along.

The group regularly invites speakers to attend particular sessions. Previous speakers include; Childcare services, and a central University HR Business partner who focused on flexible working and maternity/paternity policy.

To sign up to the parent/carers group please contact charlotte.kelly@ocdem.ox.ac.uk . Information on the next session can be found on the divisions Athena Swan noticeboard, or in the OCDEMENSION newsletter (link to newsletter). All University staff and students are welcome to attend the parent/carers group.

 Quotes from parent/carer group members

"Like many researchers within OCDEM we are not from around the Oxfordshire area so don’t have the day to day support from family and friends with helping to raise our child.  It can be a bit of minefield to work out what options there are for child care, how to apply for nurseries and what support is offered by the University.   The OCDEM parents group has been fantastic as has not brought in speakers to provide advice on child care support and flexible working but has also provided an opportunity to talk to others within the department who are also trying to balance work and family life." Matt Simmonds, Research Fellow, Gough Group

 

"The Parent/Carers group at OCDEM is a really useful and friendly place to discuss the issues that working parents/carers can face.  The formal talks that are arranged are a great source of information that we may not have time to find on the University internet pages, but the group itself is also a great source of information, advice & support" Kathy Deacon, Finance Officer, Admin Group

University information for parents and carers

The University recognises that caring is an important role, and seeks to support staff with caring responsibilities wherever possible. 

For more information on the support available, visit the information for parents and carers pages. 

Work + Family Space

Offering access to emergency back-up childcare and adultcare, a 'speak to an expert' phone line and a wide range of guides and webinars through a website called the Work + Family space. University employees can register for free with the Work + Family Space (formerly My Family Care) to access support on family related issues.