Home Life
WE ARE COMMITTED TO SUPPORTING OUR STAFF IN BALANCING THEIR HOME AND WORK RESPONSIBILITIES.
The Staff Wellbeing Team organises various events and information sessions throughout the year to help staff ease the challenges of balancing work and family life.
We have a range of support available, including for parents, carers and those seeking help with financial wellbeing.
Staff can stay updated with the latest events and sessions through the Wellbeing Calendar. Booking details and event updates are also included in the weekly Staff Round Up newsletter.
Flexible Working
Promoting a healthy work-life balance
The University offers flexible working arrangements to support staff in achieving a healthy work-life balance. These arrangements allow staff to manage their time and responsibilities more effectively, whether through remote working options or flexible hours.
Supporting parents at Queen's
We understand that balancing the demands of work and family life can be a significant challenge for working parents.
From flexible working arrangements to childcare services and dedicated parenting resources, the University provides a comprehensive support network to help staff navigate the complexities of caring for their families while thriving in their careers.
Family Leave
Providing time and support for parents
The University provides a range of policies and services to support parents. These allow for flexibility and time off when you need it most and provide financial support through enhanced rates of pay for leave and saving schemes to help with the cost of childcare.
Queen's Parents Network
Supporting families across campus
Queen's Parents Network is an inclusive, welcoming group set up in September 2022 to offer a virtual space in which staff with parenting responsibilities can provide a support network to each other and share advice.
Spotlight on our Parents
BLOG: Parenting at Queen's
"All staff can avail of support for different aspects of their home life."
Read Gary's story here
Queen's Summer Scheme
Entertainment for the family
Queen's Summer Scheme offers a fantastic opportunity for staff to keep their children engaged and entertained during the summer months, giving families peace of mind knowing their children are in safe hands.
- Enrolment for Queen's staff and students opens on Tuesday 6 May 2025
- General enrolment will open on Friday 23 May 2025
Parenting Seminars
Practical advice and support for working parents
Working parents face challenges in balancing their work and child-rearing responsibilities, particularly while their children are young. Achieving this balance is important for the wellbeing of parents and their children. Delivered by Parenting NI, these seminars discuss a range of parenting skills and cover topics such as being an effective parent, setting rules and consequences, and digital parenting.
Supporting carers at Queen's
At Queen’s, we recognise the vital role that carers play and are committed to supporting staff who balance work with caring responsibilities.
Whether staff need practical advice, emotional support, or greater flexibility at work, the University is committed to helping navigate the challenges of being a carer while maintaining a fulfilling career.
Carers Network
Connecting and supporting staff
Supported by Carers NI, this Network provides working carers with the opportunity to come together and share experiences, discuss issues, ask questions and arrange informal catch-ups. Any member of staff wanting to make contact with the network should email Wellbeing at Queen's.
Spotlight on our Carers
BLOG: Being a Staff Carer at Queen's
“Caring can be lonely, but CONNECT (Caring for Others Network - Nurturing, Empowering and Communicating Together) at Queen's is an opportunity to take a break from work and caring and to connect with others who have something in common.”
Read Duncan's story hereSupporting Staff Financial Wellbeing
At Queen’s, we know that financial pressures can be stressful and affect both your work and home life.
Whether staff are seeking advice on managing their budget, planning for the future, or accessing available benefits, the University has various resources and support available to help staff feel more in control of their finances.
Financial Wellness Advice
Financial advice and support
Information sessions in relation to topics such as managing your money, borrowing sensibly, and buying your home are delivered throughout the year by local partners (Bank of Ireland, Ulster Bank, Advice NI, Kith & Kin) and can help staff to breakdown some of the barriers to financial well-being by providing guidance and resources to help staff make more informed decisions and improve their financial wellbeing.
One to One Financial Health Clinics
Personalised support to help staff manage their finances
The Wellbeing Team engage with local partners such as Bank of Ireland, Ulster Bank and Advice NI to assist staff with Financial Health Clinics. These clinics help staff view their finances to help plan for the future through short-term, medium term and long-term goals. This includes applying for mortgages, loans and savings. Information is also provided on how to manage debt. Workshops will also be provided to staff to give an overview of information.
Staff Discounts Scheme
Helping staff save money on day-to-day costs
All staff at Queen's can avail of the University's Staff Discounts Scheme, which offers staff exclusive discounts at hundreds of outlets – including supermarkets, high street stores and restaurants, as well as vouchers, reloadable top-up cards and much more!