These groups are run through BU and not by UCU, but they may be beneficial for members. If you run a session that is not listed below and would like it added, please let us know by emailing ucubuoffice@bournemouth.ac.uk.
FMC Wellbeing Group
The FMC Wellbeing Group was formed in January 2020 and consists of representatives from each of the four departments and student support services. This committee meets quarterly and raises Wellbeing issues with FMC Exec so that they can respond and support all members of staff.
Since the national lockdown began, the Wellbeing Group hosts a Wellbeing Drop-In session for an hour every Wednesday. The group is not a therapy session, but a peer-to-peer support session where colleagues can check in with each other, share how they are feeling/challenges they are facing while working from home, or dealing with kids at home, or just general worries/concerns and receive some peer support during these changing times. The group is confidential—what is said in the group, stays in the group. General issues that affect the majority are raised with FMC Exec and these are actioned quite quickly. All FMC members of staff are welcome. Dr. Ann Luce is the FMC representative for the University-wide Wellbeing Group.
FMC Invisible Illness Group
The FMC Invisible Illness Group is for all academic and support staff. It’s a safe space for staff to share experiences, whatever their illness or disability. Staff who are caring for someone with an illness or disability are equally welcome. This confidential supportive environment, existing on campus or online, is a space where staff can listen to each other, share concerns and suggestions. For further information please contact Lizzy Sykes.
Covid-19 Restorative Lunchtime Yoga Sessions
Restorative yoga helps us shift out of the “fight or flight” response of the sympathetic nervous system and move into the “rest and digest” of the parasympathetic. Allowing our bodies and minds to find deep rest and comfort in these unsettling circumstances. These sessions have been running on Fridays at 12pm via Zoom during term time, and have been organised by Anna Feigenbaum.
