Sign up for successful buddy scheme
More than 40 staff have already signed up for a new international buddy scheme less than two months after it was launched.
And you can still get involved by volunteering for the pioneering project.
The International Team launched the scheme in November 2018, as part of the support offered to international staff as they arrive in Leeds to take up new positions at the University, helping them settle into their new environment and new roles.
Staff from all faculties and professional services responded positively to the request for buddies, with more than 40 now registered and ready to be matched with a new international colleague.
Professor Hai-Sui Yu, Deputy Vice-Chancellor: International, said: “The buddy scheme is a great initiative and will really help our international colleagues settle quickly into life in Leeds, and at the University.
“I am really pleased that so many of our colleagues responded to this call, and I really appreciate your willingness to assist in strengthening the global community here at the University.”
Ensuring international colleagues are well supported helps create a good staff experience, promotes the reputation of the University – both in the UK and overseas – and, through the sharing of international experience, knowledge and skills, enhances partnership and collaboration.
Alongside other measures designed to support international colleagues, buddying is identified as a key integration opportunity.
The main feature of the scheme is its informality and mutuality. Buddies can be of any nationality, but we will try and match colleagues firstly by faculty/discipline and then by other common factors.
The buddy register remains open, so it is not too late to volunteer if you would like to be a part of this exciting new scheme. Contact the International HR team or see the scheme guidelines for further information.
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