Trans experiences sought in focus groups
07 February 2024
The experiences of transgender and gender nonconforming colleagues at the University are being sought in a series of focus groups.
The four focus groups planned in March aim to identify the most pressing issues faced by trans and gender nonconforming members of our community, in order to understand and address them.
These discussions will be led by a Trans Action Plan Project Group, made up of representatives from the Diversity and Inclusion team, Student Services and Reading Students’ Union.
Similar meetings have already taken place with students, and now it is the turn of staff to have their say.
About the Focus Groups
The four focus groups will have different themes: staff experience; belonging and community; intersectionality; and academic freedom.
Despite the themes, the meetings will be flexible and there is scope to address what colleagues feel are most prevalent as issues for them.
The focus groups will be held online on Microsoft Teams at the following times:
|
Focus Group theme |
Date and time |
Details |
|
Focus Group 1: Staff experience |
6 March 2024 10:00 – 12:00 |
A space for trans and gender nonconforming colleagues, and others, to share positive and negative experiences they have had at the University. |
|
Focus Group 2: Belonging and community
|
11 March 2024 10:00 – 12:00 |
A chance to discuss what makes an inclusive community for trans and gender nonconforming staff and students. Reflections on effective allyship and community building are welcomed. |
|
Focus Group 3: Intersections: gender identity and protected characteristics
|
18 March 2024 14:00 – 16:00 |
Opportunity to discuss intersectional experiences with other characteristics, for example, sexuality, disability and race. |
|
Focus Group 4: Academic freedom; open
|
25 March 2024 14:00 – 16:00 |
A chance to share thoughts on how academic freedom and freedom of speech can impact trans colleagues’ experience at work. The rest of the session will remain open for broader LGBTQIA+ discussions and all LGBTQIA+ colleagues are welcome to attend. |
The insights and experiences of colleagues will be invaluable and your participation will not only contribute to a richer dialogue but also help in fostering a more inclusive and understanding environment.
Sessions will be guided by an experienced facilitator and participants will be provided with a Code of Conduct to ensure conversations remain respectful and safe.
How to participate
Please express your interest in joining the focus groups by completing the online form.
If you are a trans or gender nonconforming member of staff and would like to share your opinions or insights but cannot attend these sessions, please feel free to contact Ceara Webster, Diversity and Inclusion Advisor, to share these in written or verbal form.