Join Professor Jackie Carter, academic lead for Disability Inclusion at the University of Manchester, as she hosts the latest episode of the "Let's Talk Disability" podcast. This special instalment features external guests Dr Mel Best and Julian Gwinnett from the University of Wolverhampton, alongside Dr Hamied Haroon, Chair of the National Association of Disabled Staff Networks.

Together, they share personal experiences of living with disabilities, discuss the challenges and opportunities within higher education, and introduce the Ride Higher initiative—a collaborative project aimed at advancing disability inclusion for staff across UK universities.

Key topics include:

• The importance of visible and hidden disabilities.
• The role of advocacy networks and community support.
• The impact of the Ride Higher initiative and NADSN.
• Practical steps for institutions and individuals to foster inclusion.
• Calls to action for allies, leaders, and disabled staff.

Whether you’re a university leader, staff member, student, or ally, this episode offers valuable insights and inspiration for creating a more inclusive academic environment.

Listen, learn, and help drive real change—because disability inclusion benefits everyone.

In this powerful episode of "Let's Talk Disability," released around International Men's Day, Professor Jackie Carter welcomes Craig Best, Director of Student Academic Services, and Ele Morrissey, Executive Director of People, both from the University of Manchester. Together, they explore what it truly means to be a disability-inclusive university.

Craig shares his personal journey with visible and invisible disabilities, discussing the challenges of masking, the importance of self-worth, and the impact of bringing his authentic self to work. Ellie reflects on the university’s responsibility to create safe spaces where staff and students feel empowered to share their lived experiences and needs.

The conversation moves from dialogue to action, with both guests committing to tangible steps that foster inclusion, agency, and wellbeing. Topics include the generational shift in attitudes towards disability, the power of emotional intelligence, the need for flexible policies, and the importance of student support and accessible learning.

Whether you’re a leader, colleague, or student, this episode offers honest insights and practical ideas for building a culture where everyone feels valued and able to thrive.

There are many organisations who provide support to men with their mental health, some of which we have included below:
https://andysmanclub.co.uk/
https://uk.movember.com/
https://letstalkaboutsuicide.co.uk/mens-mental-health-charities/
https://www.thecalmzone.net/

If you are affected by MND or would like to learn more please reach out to:
https://www.mndassociation.org/

Join Professor Jackie Carter, Academic Lead for Disability Inclusion at the University of Manchester, as she hosts an inspiring conversation with Heather Cockayne (Senior Lecturer and incoming Co-Chair of the Disabled Staff Network) and Fiona Devine (Vice President and Dean of the Faculty of Humanities).

In this episode, we dive deep into what it means to create a truly disability-inclusive university. Heather shares her lived experience of navigating academia with a hidden disability, while Fiona reflects on the cultural shifts needed to foster genuine belonging and kindness across a large institution.

Key topics include:

• The power of visible and invisible disability advocacy
• The importance of inclusive design and accessible technology
• Breaking down barriers for disabled staff and students
• The value of kindness, culture change, and sharing good practice
• Real-life actions and commitments from university leaders

Whether you’re a student, staff member, or ally, this episode will challenge assumptions, spark new ideas, and inspire you to help build a more inclusive community. Listen in for honest stories, practical advice, and a reminder that small changes can make a big difference.

Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more conversations that move from dialogue to action!