{"version":"1.0","type":"rich","provider_name":"Acast","provider_url":"https://acast.com","height":250,"width":700,"html":"<iframe src=\"https://embed.acast.com/$/69e743c0abe143da5b555ec5/69f078fd02fc814be0ad8a6d?\" frameBorder=\"0\" width=\"700\" height=\"250\"></iframe>","title":"Introduction to the 'Happy, Healthy & Living Well' DSN Podcast  January 2026","thumbnail_width":200,"thumbnail_height":200,"thumbnail_url":"https://open-images.acast.com/shows/69e743c0abe143da5b555ec5/1778080402970-dabd7385-fbc5-4a18-9b88-91f7a2931858.jpeg?height=200","description":"<p>The UHSussex Disabled Staff Network A disabled staff network&nbsp;provides a safe, confidential space for employees with disabilities, long-term health conditions, or caring responsibilities to connect, shareexperiences, and receive peer support. These networks promote an inclusive workplace culture by advising senior management on policy, accessibility, and reasonable adjustments </p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Key functions of the UHSussex Disabled Staff Network include:</p><ul><li>Peer Support &amp; Community:&nbsp;Providing a forum for staff to discuss working experiences and socialise in a safe, confidential environment.</li><li>Policy and Decision Influence:&nbsp;Contributing to the development of organisational policies, ensuring they are equitable and inclusive.</li><li>Raising Awareness:&nbsp;Arranging events to increase understanding of disability equality, often supporting initiatives like the&nbsp;<a href=\"https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;url=https://www.stmarys.ac.uk/equality/get-involved/staff-networks/disability.aspx&amp;ved=2ahUKEwj5rIuNoZCUAxWHUkEAHeaqCU8Qy_kOegQIAxAE&amp;opi=89978449&amp;cd&amp;psig=AOvVaw31GLljwhegt_ZMvPnkuKnw&amp;ust=1777455832119000\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\">Sunflower Scheme</a>&nbsp;for hidden disabilities.</li><li>Advising Management:&nbsp;Acting as a, consultative voice for employees to report accessibility issues with premises, systems, or equipment.</li><li>Professional Development:&nbsp;Sharing best practices and organising professional development opportunities for disabled employees.</li><li>Advocacy:&nbsp;Challenging discriminatory practices and campaigning for better representation in workplace communications.&nbsp;</li><li>The UHSussex DSN is open to all staff with visible or invisible disabilities, chronic illnesses, neurodivergent conditions, and welcomes allies.</li></ul>","author_name":"Marcelle Quinn"}