Message from Nick Edwards - December 13
Dear colleagues,
I wanted to reach out in light of the ongoing, challenging financial situation that the University is navigating, to remind you about the support services available.
All staff members are able to access our University Counselling Service where they can book a regular counselling appointment or arrange a specific staff debrief sessions, which offer staff the chance to speak with a trained counsellor following a challenging or distressing encounter at work. More details on this specific support option is outlined in our video. Appointments with the team can be arranged by emailing counselling@abdn.ac.uk
You also have 24/7 access to the Staff Helpline, operated by CareFirst, by calling 0808 168 2143. This telephone support provides practical advice and consumer information during the day, and round the clock access to telephone counselling. This service remains open to you during the closure period this winter.
You can contact our Human Resources team for any queries that you may have about your employment, or on the support available to you, and the details of who you can contact are on the HR website.
Our campus trade unions are also available to offer advice and support to staff. More details on the campus trade unions are available on the website.
I also know that many staff will also be offering support to students. More details on how to navigate these conversations and to signpost students to dedicated services is available here
Please do make use of these services. They are available to you whether you need support for work related issues or for personal matters - and all are confidential.
I know that for many of our staff and students the current uncertainty can be very distressing, and I do hope that you will be able to take some time out over the winter break.
With best wishes this festive season,
Nick
Nick Edwards
Deputy Director of People
Head of Support Services