It is well-recognised that workload presents challenges for colleagues across the University and for a diverse range of staff groups. The Workload Principles Project, mentioned by the Vice-Chancellor in his recent all staff email, has been established in response to concerns raised by our staff community and our Trade Unions. It forms part of an ongoing, long-term dialogue about the complex topic of workload.?

Using a highly consultative approach involving colleagues from across the University, this project will deliver a broad set of principles which will apply to all staff at all levels and pathways. The target date for implementation of the principles is 31 July 2024.??

Get involved?

We need the help of colleagues from every part of the organisation to design these principles and to explore how we can make them inclusive and meaningful.?

We are looking to establish a number of focus groups, with representation from staff at all levels and pathways. These groups will meet at least twice for two-hour conversations, facilitated by the project team, between June and October this year and again in the first quarter of next year.???

Wherever possible, scheduling of the sessions will also take into account and avoid likely pressure points in our academic cycle, where this could impact the ability for people to give their time. The team will provide clear terms of reference to all those participating.??

If you would like to volunteer, please complete this form by 15 May 2023 to register your interest.?

We will involve as many colleagues as possible and will ensure that all major staff groupings are represented.??

Governance?

Workload Principles is a part of our People Strategic Plan and is one of a portfolio of Strategic Major Projects established to support delivery of our strategy.??

• The project will be led by HR, working closely with the Change Portfolio Office.?
• There is a Project Board with representation from several faculties, including one Dean and one Associate VP, and from a number of professional services directorates including Engagement & Advancement, Estates & Facilities and the Faculty Operating Service.?
• This project was discussed with all the Trade Unions last week and there will be bespoke TU sessions to discuss workload principles, beginning in June.?
• Following a second wave of consultation with the focus groups on the draft of the principles, the approval route will be the Project Board, HR Senior Leadership Team and then UEB.?
• This project has ethics approval: 2023/37?

Contact the team?

You can email the project team: workloadproject@soton.ac.uk.?