Human Resources Division

Disabled Staff (DSN) Network

Disabled Staff Network logo

Welcome to the University's DSN. We welcome all individuals who work for the University, a College or an associated institution who consider themselves disabled people.

About the Disabled Staff Network

The Disabled Staff Network grew out of the staff consultation carried out in 2006. A steering group was later formed comprising of disabled staff who had taken part in that consultation and who volunteered their time to help carry out the report's recommendations.

Since its development the Network has provided support and advice to disabled staff at the University and acted as a forum for consultation between staff and the University's governing body.

How can I join the Network?

Steering Group

The steering group has five members from each of the different staff groups at the University and includes a Chair and a Secretary. Each member is elected and serves a two-year term.

For support and advice, you can email the Secretary of the Steering Group or call Kevin Coutinho, E&D Consultant on ext. 32344. All enquiries will be treated confidentially.

If you would like to know more about the work of the Steering Group, please contact Aless McCann, the DSN Secretary or Kevin Coutinho, the University's E&D Consultant for Disability at kevin.coutinho@admin.cam.ac.uk.

Members 2009—2011

Martin Vinnell, Chair

Dr Martin Vinnell is the University's Director of Health and Safety. Originally from a biological research background, Martin was the Biological Sciences Safety Officer before becoming Director in September 2008.

Aless Mcann, Secretary of the Steering Group

Aless McCann is an Administrator for the Centre for Personal and Professional Development. She has worked at the University since January 2008 and is currently studying for a Diploma in Disability Studies at the University of Leeds.

Email
aless.mccann@admin.cam.ac.uk

Joanna Hastwell

Joanna is the Asperger Syndrome Project Officer at the Disability Resource Centre.

Michael Hauser

Micahel works at Robinson College and is the DSN College Representative.

Kirsty Wayland

Kirsty is a Disability Development Consultant at the Disability Resource Centre.

What Does the DSN Do?

Alongside the University's other Diversity Networks the DSN provides information and support to staff, assists with the co-ordination of diversity events and helps the University to progress equality by:

  • Providing a regular forum for discussing diversity issues at work or study.
  • Providing networking opportunities.
  • Raising issues in a safe environment.
  • Contributing to policy development and implementation.
  • Organising social events.
  • Arranging events to raise awareness and celebrate diversity.
  • Contributing to staff development activities.

Advice, help and support

Advice: Your Rights Are Protected in Law

The University of Cambridge is committed in its pursuit of academic excellence to equality of opportunity and to a pro-active and inclusive approach to equality, which supports and encourages all under-represented groups, promotes an inclusive culture, and values diversity (p151 Statutes and Ordinances).

This means that the University will make every effort to foster a study and work environment that is free of unlawful discrimination, harassment and victimisation for disabled people.

Support

Information on the support provided to disabled members of staff by the University and other organisations is available on the Human Resources web pages.

Other useful contacts:The University provides support to staff through the:

Complaints

Members of staff who believe that they have been discriminated against on grounds of disability may make a complaint via the University's:

  • Grievance procedures in connection with their terms and conditions of employment.
  • Dignity@Work Policy.

DSN Events

Working with the E&D team, the Network provides formal representation and support at talks and lectures focussed on the DSN community during the academic year; this includes the annual Disability Lecture held each year at St John's College.