As part of the University’s commitment to Social Responsibility and Civic Engagement, we have recently launched a new employee volunteering policy. We understand how important is it for staff to be able to give back to the wider community, whether that’s here in Greater Manchester, or further afield. 

We recognise that many of our staff are already contributing their valuable time, skills, knowledge and experience to help others, so as part of our commitment we want to be able to give back to our employees. 

Our new Employee Volunteering Policy provides all employees with the opportunity to request up to three days paid leave (pro-rata) per holiday year (October to September) to participate in a volunteering activity of their choosing. 

We understand that for some charitable causes, the need for volunteers can come in a variety of ways and that a one-fit-all approach wouldn’t be suitable. With this in mind, our staff are able to request to take volunteering leave flexibly, with the option of requesting block days, half days or hourly units.

Staff can choose to get involved with a volunteering activity which has a direct link with the University for example UoM Sport, or one via an external charity, organisation or local community project, which may be more suited to their interests e.g. supporting a local food bank or mental health charity, paired reading at a local school. 

We do ask that staff consider how their choice of activity complements our Social Responsibility and Civic Engagement plan and that our Academic colleagues also give consideration as to whether their activity could be linked to their core teaching and/or research.  

• See our Employee volunteering policy