Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Training

• 13 November 2024 - 10:00-12:00
• Online via MS Teams
• Delivered by Disability Action

The session encouraged participants to think about disability differently. The programme discussed the definition of disability – what does disability actually mean and who does it refer to. The training also considered how disability is viewed; a short quiz around facts and statistics about disability in NI; a discussion about words and actions; and finally rights and responsibilities from the Disability Discrimination Act (DDA).

Participants increased their understanding of disability equality and access issues, and should have a greater understanding of what the law says about disability discrimination.

• 18 January 2024 - 10:00-11:30
• Online via MS Teams
• Delivered by Employers for Disability NI

This training provided staff with an introduction to disability discrimination law, with hearing loss examples. The training considered the prevalence of hearing loss and signs to look for; common adjustments and communication aids. The session also looked at good communication practice including supporting lip reading and sign language, as well as communicating with someone who is deafblind.

Participants who attended should be able to recognise the legal requirements to provide reasonable adjustments related to disability; have an understanding of deaf communities and be able to apply effective communication tactics.

• 22 February 2024 - 12:00-13:00
• Online via MS Teams
• Delivered by Cara~Friend

What does LGBTQIA stand for? Sexual orientation; sexuality and gender identity explained was explained in this awareness session. The transgender experience in NI will also be considered, as well as issues facing the LGBTQIA+ community, including mental health implications.

Participants who attended should have a greater understanding of key terminology; they should also have an awareness of how to be more inclusive and therefore how to be more responsive to the needs of staff and students.

• 02 December 2024 - 14:00-15:30
• Online via MS Teams
• Delivered by Employers for Disability NI

This session provided information on what neurodiversity means in general and will focused particularly on Autism, ADD and ADHD.

Attendees should have a greater insight into how people experience these conditions, as well as common adjustments and good practice in supporting students and colleagues with Autism, ADD and ADHD.

• 20 March 2024 - 10:00-11:30
• Online via MS Teams
• Delivered by Angela Getty (EDI Section Leader)

The Disability Discrimination Act recognises that various barriers exist within society which may present practical difficulties for disabled people who are currently in employment. This awareness session examined the positive duty on the University created under the legislation, to make ‘reasonable adjustment’ to its policies and premises where reasonable and appropriate. This session was particularly useful for Line Managers, and was open to all staff and PhD researchers.