Harassment Support Contacts (HSCs), Neurodiversity Champions (ND Champions), and Staff Supporters are colleagues from across the organisation who volunteer their time to support an inclusive workplace culture.
They are available for informal, confidential conversations on a range of topics and are available to all employees, including line managers.
Each volunteer group has its own network which provides opportunities to get to know colleagues from across Imperial.
Supporting colleagues across the organisation
Emma Sharp, Project Manager in the Faculty of Natural Sciences, said: “My role as a Neurodiversity Champion is to create a safe space for people to talk if they have concerns or would like to know more about the types of resources and support that are available.”
“Sometimes people just need to talk to someone outside of the situation who can give an unbiased perspective,” said Mickie Turner-Goble, Staff Supporter and Property Divisional Administration Manager in the Property Division. “We’re here to provide support and signposting on a range of topics.”
Rob Millwood, Research Manager in the Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering, says that Harassment Support Contacts can be a great way to verbalise how you’re feeling and seek advice and signposting.
“HSCs can help ensure you’re not dealing with a situation alone. We can offer up to two hours to chat – sometimes this can be enough, and sometimes we’ll point you to further support and resources.”
He emphasised that HSCs can be contacted by anyone, including if you are not sure whether you are experiencing harassment, or you want some advice about your own behaviour.
“I find it rewarding to be there for people when they’re in need”.
Emma became a Neurodiversity Champion to build on her experience supporting dyslexic colleagues during large-scale building projects.
“Sometimes all it takes is a subtle change to the way you approach a piece of work to support colleagues and enable them to meet a deadline. Often the things we do to include our neurodiverse colleagues also benefit the wider community.”
Mickie was motivated to become a Staff Supporter because she enjoys helping people and sharing her knowledge.
“I find it rewarding to be there for people when they’re in need, and it’s great to know that there’s a network of support for me should I ever need it. Being a Staff Supporter is a great role if you like to help people and you’re a good listener.”
Rob says one of the best things about being an HSC is the colleagues he’s met across Imperial through the HSC network. They don’t discuss cases, but just meet for a coffee or to share skills. He adds that he values the commitment Imperial has made to tackling harassment by training so many volunteers.
Diverse and dynamic Imperial careers
Since joining Imperial in 2011, Emma has managed a range of high-profile projects, including moving the Department of Chemistry from the South Kensington Campus to White City in 2018. She describes her role as bridging the gap between the academic mission and estates delivery, to deliver the science requirements of a new lab or teaching space. Outside of work, Emma enjoys creative pursuits including sewing and embroidery, and spending time with her guinea pigs.
In his professional role Rob leads a team of seven people who deliver the administrative element of research projects, from the initial funding of budgets to research contracts. In his spare time, Rob uses the skills he’s developed at Imperial in volunteer roles, including as Deputy Director of Operations for London Pride, where he grew the parade from 7,000 to 32,000 people. He also enjoys travelling and visited 32 cities in 2024.
Mickie’s career at Imperial has spanned 37 years and included roles in Finance and Campus Services (now combined with Estates Operations to form the Property Division). In 2023 Mickie was awarded the Imperial College Medal in recognition of her meritorious and praiseworthy service to Imperial, an honour which means a great deal to her. Outside of work, Mickie enjoys travelling, swimming and spending time with family and friends.