Launch of Men's Staff Network

LJMU is committed to diversity and inclusion and improving the experiences of colleagues of all genders in the LJMU community. This International Men’s Day (19 November) we are pleased to announce the formation of a new Men’s Staff Network, as part of our suite of staff diversity networks.

The Men’s Staff Network will provide a space for colleagues to celebrate the positive contributions and achievements of men; raise awareness of the issues affecting men and boys and the associated impacts on wider society and offer opportunities for formal and informal networking and mentoring. 

International Men’s Day

International Men’s Day is an annual international event (19 November) that highlights the experiences and challenges affecting men and boys. It encourages conversations about men’s mental and physical health, positive male role models and gender equality, recognising that inclusion is a collective effort that benefits people of all genders. 

Our Pro-Vice-Chancellor Student Experience, Professor Phil Vickerman discusses the importance of a space for these positive conversations.

As part of the launch of the Men’s Staff Network, Diversity and Inclusion Manager, Phil Bakstad caught up with Professor Phil Vickerman (PVC Student Experience) to discuss the importance of positive conversations around male health and wellbeing and the benefits that providing a dedicated network for male staff will bring to the wider LJMU community. 

The theme for International Men’s Day 2024 is ‘positive male role models’. 

Who are some of the male role models who have had the biggest impact on you, both personally and professionally? 

I would have to start with Professor David Sugden who was Professor of Special Needs in Education at the University of Leeds. Sadly, David has passed away, but he was instrumental in giving me the confidence, and importantly the belief that I could undertake a PhD. He was a role model to what and who I have become today, and I would not be where I am if it was not for David. 

On a global scale, I admire Nelson Mandela for staying true to his beliefs and triumphing over adversity and Richard Branson for overcoming his challenges with dyslexia to become a successful entrepreneur.  

Finally, and certainly not lastly, I would say my Grandad who has passed away now. He was a hard-working Yorkshire farmer at a time when they used scythes to harvest wheat and barley. He also used to use horses to plough fields and I used to love hearing his stories of working-class men and the kinship they used to have on the farms. 

At LJMU, we have a range of different initiatives to promote good physical and mental health and wellbeing for all colleagues. Why do you think it is important we take time to reflect on the particular needs of men and boys? 

It is essential we take time as a university to reflect upon the specific needs of men and boys. Particularly as societal expectations often deter men and boys from accessing support for physical and mental health.  

In the university, creating initiatives that address these unique challenges, we can work towards facilitating a culture of openness, resilience, transparency, and empowerment of men and boys to champion their own health and wellbeing.  

I believe it is crucial we focus on these issues as part of our institutional commitment to diversity and inclusivity. Establishing a Men’s Network I hope will help us focus on key issues that affect men and boys, whilst at the same time continuing to support and recognise the diverse needs and challenges other groups also face.   

White young working-class men are nationally under-represented in higher education. How are we working to ensure that we meet our responsibilities to improve access to HE for this group, and what are some of the associated benefits for other communities?  

White young working-class men are significantly under-represented in higher education, and addressing this disparity is a key responsibility for us all at LJMU.  We are committed to targeted outreach, mentoring, and tailored support to improve access, engagement, and success for this group.  

I believe that if we spend time focusing on this issue it not only empowers white working-class men, but hopefully also creates a ripple effect that benefits other under-represented communities, enriching our academic environment and ultimately delivers strong outcomes for society. 

We are using International Men’s Day 2024 to formally launch a new LJMU Men’s Network. What do you think are some of the benefits in providing a dedicated space for colleagues to come together to discuss the issues affecting men and boys will bring to the University?  

Launching the LJMU Men’s Network provides an important space for people to come together and engage in open dialogue about the unique challenges faced by men and boys.  

I truly believe this Network will foster insight, understanding, and promote mental and physical wellbeing through a culture of inclusivity. In focusing on these areas collectively and individually the network will enhance community support, drive positive change, and contribute to a healthier, and more empathetic university environment for everyone. 

Joining the Men’s Staff Network

Colleagues who are interested in being involved in the formation of LJMU’s Men’s Staff Network are invited to attend an informal lunch discussion, which will take place on Wednesday 4 December, 12.30 to 2pm, Exchange Station Meeting Rooms 1 and 2, facilitated by Phil Bakstad (Diversity and Inclusion Manager) and Andy Keegan (Head of Reward, Recognition and Engagement). Please email equality@LJMU.ac.uk to register your interest. 

Other staff networks at LJMU

LJMU has seven other staff networks that staff can join: 

• Ethnically Diverse Staff Network
• Staff Disability Network
• LGBTQI+ Staff Network
• Women Academic Staff Network
• Women Professors Staff Network
• Women in Professional Services Network
• Admin and Executive Support Network

Find out more about the LJMU staff networks and how to join them.