St Mary’s is committed to supporting all staff achieving a good work life balance in order to continue excelling at work whilst being able to balance their caring responsibilities.
The network is open and welcomes all staff who are parents and those who are balancing work with caring responsibilities for family members. We aim to provide a supportive space and the opportunity to share experiences.
To support staff working flexibly we endeavour to hold events at different times and days of the week, and where possible allow for hybrid sessions, so you can attend remotely.
Membership
Please contact Rachel Bowles or Sheela Patel on parentcarersnetwork@stmarys.ac.uk if you would like more information, or to join the distribution list for upcoming events.
As members your insight is invaluable. Please do forward any suggestions for future events to us. We hope to hold two events per semester.
Events
We’d love to see you at any (or all!) of these events. Whether you’re looking for advice, connection, or just a friendly chat, there’s a place for you here.
October 2025
Informal Drop in/Chat: Wed 2 Oct, 1 to 2pm, Dolce Vita
Tuesday 8 October – Parent and Carers Meet-Up, 12.30pm room TBC
A relaxed gathering to kick off the year, meet new faces, and reconnect over coffee.
November 2025
Tuesday 5 November – “Remember, Remember” Walk, 12.30pm starting at the Dolce Vita Café.
Put on your jacket, let us buy you a hot drink, and join us for a gentle walk around the University grounds. It is an opportunity to soak up the autumn vibes and take some time to remember loved ones, wonderful memories, funny stories or just moments of reflection.
Informal Drop in/Chat: Thu 7 Nov 1 to 2pm, Dolce Vita
December 2025
EDI Seasonal Social: Tue 3 Dec 4 to 6pm, 1850 Loft
Tuesday 10 December – Festive Season Meet-Up, 12.30pm room TBC
A space to reflect on balancing caring responsibilities with the festive season and children’s needs.
January 2026
Informal Drop in/Chat: Tue 28 Jan, 1 to 2pm, Dolce Vita
February 2026
Tuesday 3 February – External Speaker Session, 12.30pm
A special guest will join us to share insights and inspiration—details to follow!
Lunch and Learn with Carers UK: Wed 26 Feb, 1 to 2pm, Room K21
March 2026
Tuesday 11 March – Coffee and Connect, 12.30pm The Dolce Vita Cafe
A chance to pause, chat, and recharge with fellow members.
April 2026
Tuesday 21 April – Thinking About Tests and Exams! 12.30pm room TBC
Let’s talk strategies and support for navigating exam season as a parent or carer.
May 2026
Wellbeing Check in: Thu 8 May, 1 to 2pm, J102
Memory Walk: Mon 19 at 12.30 to 1pm, main reception
June 2026
Tuesday 17 June – End-of-Year Meet-Up, 12.30pm room TBC
Sharing tips and ideas for managing the school holidays and winding down the academic year.
Informal Drop in/Chat: Tue 24 June, 1 to 2pm, Dolce Vita
Supporting material
Athena Swan