The College recognises that the transition into the life changing event of parenthood can be both difficult and stressful for some. These three workshops look at both the practical and emotional aspects to enable staff to develop in their careers post maternity, adoption, paternity/maternity support, or shared parental leave, through effective planning and communication.

The workshops are held in small groups to encourage personal reflection and discussion with others.  They are facilitated by a qualified coach who will help individuals navigate their personal change journeys during the transition to and from parental leave.  Although a member of HR will be present for a short time to answer any policy-related questions, the majority of the session will not cover internal policies so do please familiarise yourself with these if needed before the session. 

They are all free to College staff.

Preparing For Parental Leave Workshop

Most suitable for:  Anyone who is taking more than 6 weeks of leave; this could be maternity, shared parental or carer’s leave. An ideal time to join is whilst in the planning or expectancy phase, before the leave commences.

The workshop covers:

• Maintaining confidence through change
• Strengthening relationships at work in preparation for leave
• Creating and communicating a handover plan
• Setting up a support network and keeping in touch plan
• Thinking ahead to a successful return

Working Parents Workshop

Most suitable for: Anyone who has recently returned from more than 6 weeks of leave; or anyone who needs to re-evaluate their work/family balance and career direction.

The workshop covers:

• Reconnecting with values and strengths
• Enhancing visibility
• Growing relationships; building a personal stakeholder map
• How to work flexibly effectively
• Identifying a better work/life balance

New and Expecting Fathers/Partners Workshop

Most suitable for: New and expecting fathers or same-sex partners who would like the opportunity to discuss their changing role with others who are also experiencing combining their new (or impending) role as a dad/partner with that of a professional.

The workshop covers:

• Managing the change
• Managing expectations - pressures to perform both at work and family life
• Strengthening relationships
• Understanding the challenges faced by parents and identify solutions
• Practicalities – childcare, sleep deprivation

Further information

If you have any queries on the content of these workshops please contact parents@imperial.ac.uk. We have also included a link near the top of the page to access the Parental Leave portal (offered by P&P Coaching) and free for staff to access. (Note: if you need your password reset, please contact info@pandpcoaching.co.uk).

You may also be interested in Imperial's Parents' Network or Carers' Network. The HR website has full information about the College's family leave provision.