The experiences of Doctoral Researcher parents have so far been under explored. The differences in lifestyle and responsibility can often be in stark contrast to other Doctoral Researchers. This often brings with it unique considerations around wellbeing. To understand more clearly the balancing act of having children at home and completing a PhD, we must engage with the community.

Parents have been particularly hit hard by lockdown measures. Caring responsibilities have increased placing extra strains on time and energy which has disproportionately impacted women researchers. We will discuss with the parents their experiences during this past year, the challenges they have had to surmount and perhaps some unexpected positive moments along the way.  

This event will explore all these key themes and more, as we aim to get feedback from a vibrant Doctoral Researcher parent community. 含羞草视频 Students Union, Doctoral Researcher Co-President, Nathan Ritchie, will host the event and will facilitate the discussion between the Doctoral Researchers. 

Intended Learning Outcomes:

• Provide a space for parents share their experiences
• Increase awareness of the Doctoral Researcher parent community
• Clearly establish cthe challenges Doctoral Researcher parents have faced this year.

Presenter biography:

Nathan Ritchie is the LSU Doctoral Researcher Co-President. Nathan is a Doctoral Researcher in the School of Social Sciences and is interested in the intersection between politics, media and history.

As a DR representative, Nathan has striven for wider institutional awareness and provisions for groups who face additional challenges. Following the pandemic, a group Nathan has prioritised has been the community of Doctoral Researcher parents at 含羞草视频.  

There can be a recognised link between student wellbeing and accommodation with poor housing conditions or disputes often impacting negatively on the ability to study.

The Student Advice and Support Service can provide guidance on a wide range of accommodation issues such as:

• What to be aware of when seeking a property in the private accommodation sector
• The legality of assured shorthold tenancie and how to identify the rights and responsibilities of entering into such an agreement.
• Damage deposit protection legislation 
• Council Tax regulations covering Doctoral Researchers

You are invited to ask questions during this drop-in session and/or provide questions in advance via this form.

You may also wish to watch this introductory video created by the Student Advice and Support Service.

Presenter biographies:

Shivani Sharma has worked in the advice field for over 10 years. She started off as an adviser at the Dudley District Citizens Advice Bureau, whilst at university studying law. She went on to qualify as a Housing Law Solicitor in Birmingham, working in a private practice and then working in the legal department at Shelter West Midlands.

Presenter biographies:

Elaine Richards is an independent yoga and mindfulness instructor on behalf of Sports Development Centre & the Recreational Sport Programme Team.

Join the the PhD Social Support Network online for a movie night. All welcome!