There have been a lot of new starters recently so we thought it would be a good idea to re-introduce the IT Services Health & Wellbeing group. Debbie and myself (Steph) have recently taken over leading the group from Lucy Turner whilst she is on maternity leave.
In IT Services, we’re supporting Workplace Wellbeing’s “Five Ways to Wellbeing” – Be Active, Take Notice, Learn, Connect and Give. So far, we’ve covered ‘Be Active’ with lunchtime walks and ‘Keep Learning’. Our lunchtime walks are continuing to keep you active – weather and time permitting – all are welcome. In January, we will be arranging a trip to the Library to view the many resources that are available on the subject of Wellbeing. To find out dates and locations for any of our events join our Facebook group and/or the ITS-Wellbeing mailing list. Just email its-wellbeing-owner@lists.bham.ac.uk to request to join!
In this post, we focus on giving. There are plenty of opportunities to give to those less fortunate than ourselves at this time of year – how about our very own St Basil’s Christmas charity appeal for example? Or how about giving your time and expertise to young people? There are lots of organisations that are looking for volunteers to go into schools and promote careers in Technology – see the STEM Ambassador scheme and STEMettes. They can provide opportunities to mentor secondary school children, become a penpal writing to children about what you do in your job or even run after school clubs such as Code clubs.
Inspired by the recent Wellbeing week and a creative session that Debbie attended and still on the theme of giving, what is nicer than to give a handmade card to your family and friends? We will therefore be holding a Christmas card-making lunch session (with festive baked treats ☺) on Monday 10th December at 12-1pm in the Committee Room, Elms Road. We will provide die-cut decorations and ink stamps but please bring along your own blank cards – the Range and the Works usually have packs available. So we know how many supplies (arts and food!) we need, please book your place by emailing its-wellbeing-owner@lists.bham.ac.uk.
On a related note, if you are feeling stressed at this busy time of year, how about attending the University Lunchtime Mindfulness/Meditation sessions? They are run by Sharon Jones (s.jones.12@bham.ac.uk) on a Monday at 1pm in the Cadbury Room of the Chaplaincy (St Francis Hall).
Suggestions?
If you have any suggestions for future activities for the group then please contact Stephanie Thompson or Debbie Carter in the Research Engagement team, Advanced Research Computing.