The LGBTQ+ staff focus group is for anybody who is passionate about growing a more accepting and inclusive campus so everyone feels a sense of belonging and has representation. We host events and develop initiatives to educate around LGBTQ+ issues, promoting wellbeing and connection within our community and among our allies. As a student volunteer, you could support us in producing and promoting these events, contributing to the development of an increasingly inclusive and supportive University campus and culture.
We can't be what we can't see, we like to say. Everybody deserves the chance to see someone they can identify with attending and thriving at university and beyond. We are working to make sure our staff, students, and local community feel seen, validated, represented, and supported. We could really use your help!
- LGBTQ+ community member or allies
- Open-mindedness
- A growth mindset (willing to learn - you don't need to be perfect!)
- Respect for others
- A desire to make our University a more inclusive place to work and study
Volunteering for the LGBTQ+ Focus Group puts you in an excellent position to gain valuable experience, no matter what your career plans for after your course. Equality, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) considerations impact every sector. Showing willingness to be part of the effort towards change helps you stand out as a proactive member of your community.
You will also have the opportunity to interact with staff and students across the University, meeting people with diverse identities and experiences. This is a great chance to develop your relationship-building skills. However, if you're an introvert, don't worry! We are passionate about making our volunteering opportunities accessible, and will be happy to find behind-the-scenes work for you to participate in.
Essentially, we are a group of very passionate, proactive, friendly people. We really care about the work we do, and we'd love you to have the chance to be a part of it.
Our Opportunities
Following our University's first-ever LGBTQ+ Pride event last year, we are planning an Intersectional Pride with all of the Teesside University Focus Groups (Disability, Ethnic & Cultural Diversity, Faith & Belief, and Gender).