May 2021 : simplebooklet.com

EDITOR*Carole Wilsonbulletineditor@iat.org.ukASSISTANT EDITOR*Paul Barwoodbulletinassistant@iat.org.ukADVERTISEMENTMANAGERSPRC Associates Ltdmail@prcassoc.co.ukPublished monthly by theInstitute of Animal Technology*Registered Office:5 South ParadeSummertownOxfordOX2 7JLISSN 0263-2861For enquiries other thanBulletin related contact:IAT ADMINISTRATOR*admin@iat.org.ukor 0800 085 4380BulletinVol 56 No 7 July 2020Final copy date forAugust Bulletin23rd JuneThe opinions expressed in theBulletin do not necessarily reflectthose of the Editor or theInstitute.CONTENTSDear Readers 5___________________________________CLAST information 6-7___________________________________Welcome to MySociety – 8-11The IAT MembershipDatabase___________________________________BING and Branch Reps – 14-15first joint meeting___________________________________AS-ET News 16-18___________________________________Diary Dates 19___________________________________Jul20:IATB NEW 10/7/20 10:01 Page 3Vol 57 No 5 May 2021CONTENTSFinal copy date for July Bulletin23rd MayDear Readers 5205th Council Meeting 6-7Maintaining an Effective10-11AWERB in the Age of COVID-19Inter-Branch Fitness 12ChallengeCongress 2022 13AS-ET News 14-15Disability and the Workplace16-17Coffee Catch Up 18Surrey, Hampshire and 19-20Sussex Branch AGMDiary Dates 23SolutionsProviderLEARN MORE AT WWW.ALLENTOWNINC.COM WWW.ALLENTOWNINC.COMOver the past 50 years our goal has been to serve science with integrity and care. With the expansion of our solutions for the laboratory animal science community we can oﬀer more support, and more choices, to help you in your quest to improve lives around the world though scientiﬁc discovery.

Page 4

Page 5

BulletinMay 2021 • 5BulletinJuly 2020• 5Dear ReadersKeep Reading!CaroleKeep Reading!Keep Reading!Keep Reading!Keep Reading!Keep Reading!Keep Reading!Keep Reading!Keep Reading!Poverty IATLAUNCHES EQUALITY AND DIVERSITY GenderRaceSexual OrientationDiscriminationAgeReligion or BeliefDisabilityEthnicityFairAnti-oppres sive practiceFairYout h WorkSexValuesEmpowermentLegislationDifferenc eSocietyEqualRightsStatusOpportunitiesClassBeliefsEducationNOBODY IS THE SAME BUT EVERYONE IS EQUALInstitute of Animal TechnologyAdvancing and promoting excellence in the care and welfare of animals in scienceEnsuring policies, procedures and processes don’t discriminateEducation - equal access to opportunitiesCreating an inclusive culture for allwww.iat.org.uk/equalityGROUPJul20:IATB NEW 30/9/20 12:41 Page 5KKeeeeeeeeeeeeeeepepepepeepeepeppReaeaeaaeaeaeaedadaddadadadaididididiididididnnngngnggngngngng!K As I write this to you we are gradually climbing out of lockdown. I am waiting to hear Boris Johnson’s announcement to, hopefully, conﬁ rm that hairdressers, gyms and pubs will all be opening next week! I am waiting to hear about foreign travel, before COVID times I used to travel a lot and over a year later I am starting to miss my jaunts abroad.I think that we are all adapting to the times and suspect things will never go back exactly the same way, especially with regard to meetings. Kally Booth has written a summary of an AWERB workshop, see pages 10 – 11, at which the merits of online ways of communicating were discussed and contrasted with face-to-face. It appears that both have their merits and disadvantages, a topic we also reviewed at the last Council meeting, see pages 6 – 7. We came to the conclusion that we would get together in person twice a year and the rest of the time we would be together on Zoom.The chance to meet face-to-face, talk and network is the thing I think we can all agree is that which we miss most about the virtual world. Some of you may remember that a few months ago I was recounting a story about Congress in Lancaster, in 1990. Neil Yates read the story and told me he was also there and sent these images of the mug he was given as proof! I have never worked with him, but know him because we have met so many times at various different functions, over the years and had the opportunity to exchange views on a wide range of subjects including budgeting and accounting methods! Neil is due to retire soon and I wish him great happiness!I certainly hope we do not end up in a totally virtual world but, more importantly, can someone explain to me why I did not get a mug in 1990!BulletinJuly 2020• 5Dear ReadersTwo things to tell you, as we graduallycome out of hibernation. The first thing to say,we are now back in printed form, so I do hope youare now returning back to a more structured way ofworking and reading this in the tea room! The second thing, something you will have alreadynoticed – the July edition of the Bulletin is muchsmaller than usual. There are a couple of reasons forthis, obviously while we have been in lockdown, wehave not been attending any conferences, meetings, seminars orworkshops in person, these have all been postponed or pushed intovirtual meetings. Most of which have been done at very short notice – socurrently there is nothing much to report. Additionally, because of theunscheduled changes to our lives, the Bulletin has begun to get verybehind in our print schedule, which we now need to get back as wereturn to printed format. Our August edition will also be small – but Iguarantee our September edition will be back to normal!Back with this edition, we do have some articles of interest to you – let’sstart with MySociety – the IAT membership database. Read pages 8-11 foran explanation of how this works and how you can use it. This is ofinterest to us all, but especially so to those of us who are RAnTechs – wecan use the database to track and keep records of our CPD.Elsewhere, we have AS-ET news, which includes information on the essaycompetition – prize a trip to Congress 2021. See page 16 to see if you areeligible – even if you are not, please pass the information on to thosewho are.Make sure you take care and …Keep Reading!CarolePoverty IAT LAUNCHES EQUALITY AND DIVERSITY GenderRaceSexual OrientationDiscriminationAgeReligion or BeliefDisabilityEthnicityFairAnti-oppres sive practiceFairYout h WorkSexValuesEmpowermentLegislationDifferenc eSocietyEqualRightsStatusOpportunitiesClassBeliefsEducationNOBODY IS THE SAME BUT EVERYONE IS EQUALInstitute of Animal TechnologyAdvancing and promoting excellence in the care and welfare of animals in scienceEnsuring policies, procedures and processes don’t discriminateEducation - equal access to opportunitiesCreating an inclusive culture for allwww.iat.org.uk/equalityGROUPJul20:IATB NEW 10/7/20 10:01 Page 5BulletinJuly 2020• 5Dear ReadersTwo things to tell you, as we graduallycome out of hibernation. The first thing to say,we are now back in printed form, so I do hope youare now returning back to a more structured way ofworking and reading this in the tea room!The second thing, something you will have alreadynoticed – the July edition of the Bulletin is muchsmaller than usual. There are a couple of reasonsfor this, obviously while we have been in lockdown,we have not been attending any conferences, meetings, seminars orworkshops in person, these have all been postponed or pushed intovirtual meetings. Most of which have been done at very short notice – socurrently there is nothing much to report. Additionally, because of theunscheduled changes to our lives, the Bulletin has begun to get verybehind in our print schedule, which we now need to get back as wereturn to printed format. Our August edition will also be small – but Iguarantee our September edition will be back to normal!Back with this edition, we do have some articles of interest to you – let’sstart with MySociety – the IAT membership database. Read pages 8-11for an explanation of how this works and how you can use it. This is ofinterest to us all, but especially so to those of us who are RAnTechs – wecan use the database to track and keep records of our CPD.Elsewhere, we have AS-ET news, which includes information on the essaycompetition – prize a trip to Congress 2021. See page 16 to see if you areeligible – even if you are not, please pass the information on to thosewho are.Make sure you take care and …Happy Reading!CarolePoverty IATLAUNCHES EQUALITY AND DIVERSITY GenderRaceSexual OrientationDiscriminationAgeReligion or BeliefDisabilityEthnicityFairAnti-oppres sive practiceFairYout h WorkSexValuesEmpowermentLegislationDifferenc eSocietyEqualRightsStatusOpportunitiesClassBeliefsEducationNOBODY IS THE SAME BUT EVERYONE IS EQUALInstitute of Animal TechnologyAdvancing and promoting excellence in the care and welfare of animals in scienceEnsuring policies, procedures and processes don’t discriminateEducation - equal access to opportunitiesCreating an inclusive culture for allwww.iat.org.uk/equalityGROUPJul20:IATB NEW 13/7/20 08:29 Page 5I certainly hope we do not end Made with Alcohol/Chemical Resistant Polycarbonate and prevents unnecessary exposure to personnel and environmentCLEAR INDUCTION CHAMBERSSLIDE TOPThe SOMNI line of chambers are designed with slide top lids that allow for one handed operation. Unlike a “hinge lid” the slide top keeps gases from being “drawn” into the workplace when the chamber is opened.LID CHAMBERSRED INDUCTFLOW CHAMBERSCOMPATIBLE WITH EXISTING UK/EU:ProductsAccessoriesFittingsSOMNI Scientific is centered on the animal welfare and research community with a focus on clinical accuracy, clinician/technician safety, economic performance and intuitive functionality.SOMNI PROVIDES UNPARALLELED CUSTOMER SERVICE, CLINICAL AND TECHNICAL SUPPORT.

Page 6

Bulletin6 • May 2021 205th Meeting of the Council of the Institute of Animal Technology Held by Zoom on 17th February 2021 at 13.00 hoursAST2020Approximately two thirds of the AST2020 pro rata refunds have been made. A reminder had been sent out to those who have not yet claimed their refund. Anyone who paid to attend and has not received their refund should contact the IAT Administrator (admin@iat.org.uk).IAT Membership Database – mySocietyThe database is now fully operational and the educational aspects have also come online. Students can now register for IAT qualiﬁcations via mySociety. Guidance on how to register is available on the IAT Education website www.iateducation.co.uk and will be promoted in the Bulletin.Council MeetingsThere were discussions as to the future format of IAT Council meetings. It was felt that the virtual meetings held during 2020 had made it easier for people to attend, as it no longer takes a whole day and also kept costs much lower. However, there are times when face-to-face meetings are necessary, so going forward, the May and December meetings will be in person and the other three meetings will be virtual. There will also be an option to join the face-to-face meetings remotely if necessary.AAALAC Fellowship Programme 2021It was reported that the AAALAC Fellowship programme for 2021 would be paused. The committee had not reached this decision lightly but agreed that with the uncertainty surrounding international travel and that host organisations may not be able to accept visitors, the programme could not go ahead. It will resume in 2022, with a new streamlined, online application process.Andrew Blake Tribute Award (ABTA) Council were delighted to hear that Zoe Windsor had been awarded the ABTA, for her paper ‘Reﬁnements in head plate mouse nesting: using composite nests to enhance welfare’. Zoe will present her paper at the virtual Congress 2021.

Page 7

BulletinMay 2021 • 7 Council MembersThree new members will join the IAT Council following the AGM. They are Carmen Abela, Diane Hazlehurst and Robin Labesse. We very much look forward to meeting and working with them in the coming year.Animal Technology and WelfareCouncil were informed that Cheryl Yalden had been awarded the Journal Article Prize for the paper on her Level 6 project. The Tech-2-Tech article prize, kindly sponsored by AS-ET, had been awarded to Shona Henderson. Tech MonthTech Month 2021 was a virtual event and ran alongside Congress 2021. There were the usual quizzes and a Technician Bingo game.70th AnniversaryThe Communications Group has compiled articles celebrating the IAT 70th Anniversary published in the Bulletin. Council groups have written articles on achievements over the past 70 years and photos have shown how the role of Animal Technologists and the equipment they use, have changed and developed.Careers BrochureThe Careers brochure has been reviewed and will be republished shortly.E-newslettersMonthly e-newsletters are now being sent out. If you do not receive a copy and would like to, please go to your record on mySociety and check your contact details. Details on how to access the database can be found on the IAT website.Coffee Catch Up SessionsThe fact that many Animal Technologists have found working during the pandemic incredibly hard has led to a suggestion from the BING group that a weekly drop in session where people could informally chat and see a friendly face would be a good idea. The Equality and Diversity Group took this idea and set up a zoom meeting. The ﬁrst meeting was very well received and the sessions will continue every Wednesday.The next meeting of the Council of the Institute will be held in May 2021.

Page 8

Page 9

Page 10

Bulletin10 • May 2021 Maintaining an effective AWERB in the age of COVID-19AWERB UK held a joint meeting on the 8th of February 2021, ‘Maintaining an effective AWERB in the age of COVID-19’ involving the RSPCA, LASA, LAVA and the IAT. It was designed to look at the overall picture of how AWERBs have been running during the COVID-19 pandemic or if they have been running at all. The interest in this topic was obvious from the attendance rate – 175 participants.The morning talks involved the views from 5 groups of AWERB members. Some of the presenters’ talks were based on their own experiences and some reﬂected wider opinions. The Animal Technologists views were represented by Kally Booth (University of Dundee and IAT Chair of the Branch/BING group) and discussed results collected from a Survey Monkey questionnaire. The view of a scientist was given by Matthew Allan (Queen Elizabeth Animal Hospital, Cambridge) and that of an independent member by Bentley Crudgington (Animals Research Nexus and sitting on an AstraZeneca AWERB), who used data gathered for a paper that is due for future publication. The view of a Named Veterinary Surgeon was presented by Ngaire Dennison (University of Dundee and Senior Vice President of LAVA) and a view from an AWERB Chair by Cathy Abbott (University of Edinburgh). The afternoon was a panel discussion session with questions from the participants, ﬁnishing off the meeting with action points and take-home messages gathered from the participants via a Padlet platform. The outcome of the meeting showed that AWERBs have adapted to the virtual world extremely well and are running effectively via Teams, Zoom, Skype and Google Meet. The view of all groups seemed to be the same for most areas of AWERB function. The positives included that meetings run virtually are better attended as members of the AWERB are not having to spend time and money on travel. Individuals also commented that they ﬁnd it easier to participate in virtual meetings rather than face-to-face due to functions such as ‘raise hand’ and ‘chat’ boxes available on platforms which allowed an easy way to raise issues/ comment. That these can also be used anonymously seemed to be highly favoured in the feedback from participants at the end of the meeting.

Page 11

BulletinMay 2021 • 11 However individuals did ﬁnd virtual meetings are more tiring and the biggest downfall was felt to be that people are missing the face-to-face social interaction and networking which are simply not possible in the same way virtually. There was also some concern that all or some AWERB functions may not be as well addressed currently as in previous face-to-face meetings. This may be due to the focus being on running the meeting itself on the new platform rather than its content.I personally feel, along with most of the participants going forward meetings should be a mix of both virtual and face-to-face. This will not only capture the efﬁciency of the virtual but will also maintain the personal relationships of a face-to-face that we are all currently missing. Other helpful materials with respect to the AWERB function are the RSPCA reports and resources page relating to ethical review (https://science.rspca.org.uk/ -/ethical-revi-1), which includes the RSPCA/LASA guiding principles on good practice for AWERBs (tinyurl.com/AWERB-RSPCA-LASA) and developing induction materials for AWERB members (tinyurl.com/RSPCA-LASA-ind). Reporter: Kally BoothAAALAC Fellowship – Coming soon!The AAALAC Committee have made the very difﬁcult decision to postpone applications for the AAALAC Fellowship for 2021. Uncertainty about international travel restrictions and whether facilities will be able to host visitors means that the Fellowship programme has been paused for 2021.However we are very excited to announce that when we return to the programme in 2022, we will be launching our new application process. This will be a simpliﬁed, online application and will be accessed via the AAALAC website. Details on how to apply can be found on the AAALAC website (www.aaalac.org/awards/fellowship-award), as well as via links from the AALAS (www.aalas.org) and IAT (www.iat.org.uk) websites.

Page 12

Page 13

Page 14

Bulletin14 • May 2021 Bulletin16 •July 2020AS-ET NewsThe Trustees of AS-ET would like to send our best wishes to all those of you whoare having to work in difficult circumstances, ensuring your animals are cared forand essential science carries on. It is an amazing achievement to have continuedto get to work while public transport has been lacking and while avoiding beinginfected yourselves. Congratulations to all of you for demonstrating your cultureof care in a really practical way in these dangerous times. Please make sure tostill stay safe now that the restrictions have been lifted slightly – the incidence ofinfections has slowed down but the virus is still around.As you can imagine this has been a quiet time for AS-ET but we are ready forwhen circumstances allow people to get back to enrolling on courses. Our plansfor events to mark our tenth anniversary will remain on hold until the countrybecomes more settled, however remember the Congress Bursary Competition isstill running so start writing. Congress Bursary CompetitionIf you are studying for the IAT level 2 qualification or you passed it in 2018, 2019or 2020 and you are employed as a laboratory animal technician in the UK or theRepublic of Ireland you can enter the competition. This year’s topic is —‘What challenges and rewards have you experienced as an animal technician?’ Your 1,000 word essay should be submitted by 20th October 2020. Full details areon our website (www.as-et.org.uk).Patron: Professor Lord Naren Patel KTChair of Trustees: Professor Sir Richard Gardner FIAT (Hon) FRSSecretary to the Trust: Ken Applebee OBE FIAT FRSBTrustees: Stephen Barnett MSc (Hon) FRSB, Jasmine Barley MSc FIAT,Karen J Gardner, Wendy Steel BSc (Hons) FIATRegistered Charity Number 113319Registered Office: 5 South Parade, Summertown, Oxford OX2 7JLJul20:IATB NEW 10/7/20 10:02 Page 16AS-ET NewsBRET Scholarships awarded AS-ET is delighted to announce that two scholarships funded by the Biomedical Research Education Trust (BRET) have been awarded by AS-ET. The ﬁ rst goes to Zoe Windsor of University College London to enable her to study both Experimental Design (IAT Level 4, Unit 6) and Physiology of Stress and Pain (IAT Level 6, Unit 12). Bussiwe Mogodi of the University of Cape Town has been awarded the second scholarship and is also studying two units – Biological Sciences (IAT Level 4, Unit 3) and Control and Identiﬁ cation of Disease (IAT Level 4, Unit 4). Bussi is an excellent ambassador for IAT education, having made a presentation about IAT training in South Africa and its beneﬁ ts to South African Laboratory Animal Technician (LAT) students who currently study online courses and becoming empowered to become professional LATs.

Page 15

BulletinMay 2021 • 15 Bulletin16 •July 2020AS-ET NewsThe Trustees of AS-ET would like to send our best wishes to all those of you whoare having to work in difficult circumstances, ensuring your animals are cared forand essential science carries on. It is an amazing achievement to have continuedto get to work while public transport has been lacking and while avoiding beinginfected yourselves. Congratulations to all of you for demonstrating your cultureof care in a really practical way in these dangerous times. Please make sure tostill stay safe now that the restrictions have been lifted slightly – the incidence ofinfections has slowed down but the virus is still around.As you can imagine this has been a quiet time for AS-ET but we are ready forwhen circumstances allow people to get back to enrolling on courses. Our plansfor events to mark our tenth anniversary will remain on hold until the countrybecomes more settled, however remember the Congress Bursary Competition isstill running so start writing. Congress Bursary CompetitionIf you are studying for the IAT level 2 qualification or you passed it in 2018, 2019or 2020 and you are employed as a laboratory animal technician in the UK or theRepublic of Ireland you can enter the competition. This year’s topic is —‘What challenges and rewards have you experienced as an animal technician?’ Your 1,000 word essay should be submitted by 20th October 2020. Full details areon our website (www.as-et.org.uk).Patron: Professor Lord Naren Patel KTChair of Trustees: Professor Sir Richard Gardner FIAT (Hon) FRSSecretary to the Trust: Ken Applebee OBE FIAT FRSBTrustees: Stephen Barnett MSc (Hon) FRSB, Jasmine Barley MSc FIAT,Karen J Gardner, Wendy Steel BSc (Hons) FIATRegistered Charity Number 113319Registered Office: 5 South Parade, Summertown, Oxford OX2 7JLJul20:IATB NEW 10/7/20 10:02 Page 16AS-ET is a charity to advance education and promote excellence in the careand welfare of animals used in science. Sponsors of AS-ET are listed below and to find out more please visit thewebsite www.as-et.org.ukAS-ET is a charity set up to advance education and promote excellence inthe care and welfare of animals used in science.To see how you can apply for a bursary visit our website (www.as-et.org.uk)The companies listed below sponsor AS-ET. If you would like to join themfind out how to support us by looking at our website.BulletinMay 2014• 15AS-ET is a charity set up to advance education and promote excellence inthe care and welfare of animals used in science.To see how you can apply for a bursary visit our website (www.as-et.org.uk)The companies listed below sponsor AS-ET. If you would like to join themfind out how to support us by looking at our website.BulletinMay 2014• 15AS-ET is a charity set up to advance education and promote excellence inthe care and welfare of animals used in science.To see how you can apply for a bursary visit our website (www.as-et.org.uk)The companies listed below sponsor AS-ET. If you would like to join themfind out how to support us by looking at our website.BulletinMay 2014• 15AS-ET is a charity set up to advance education and promote excellence inthe care and welfare of animals used in science.To see how you can apply for a bursary visit our website (www.as-et.org.uk)The companies listed below sponsor AS-ET. If you would like to join themfind out how to support us by looking at our website.BulletinMay 2014• 15AS-ET is a charity set up to advance education and promote excellence inthe care and welfare of animals used in science.To see how you can apply for a bursary visit our website (www.as-et.org.uk)The companies listed below sponsor AS-ET. If you would like to join themfind out how to support us by looking at our website.BulletinMay 2014• 15AS-ET is a charity set up to advance education and promote excellence inthe care and welfare of animals used in science.To see how you can apply for a bursary visit our website (www.as-et.org.uk)The companies listed below sponsor AS-ET. If you would like to join themfind out how to support us by looking at our website.BulletinMay 2014• 15AS-ET is a charity set up to advance education and promote excellence inthe care and welfare of animals used in science.To see how you can apply for a bursary visit our website (www.as-et.org.uk)The companies listed below sponsor AS-ET. If you would like to join themfind out how to support us by looking at our website.BulletinMay 2014• 15AS-ET is a charity set up to advance education and promote excellence inthe care and welfare of animals used in science.To see how you can apply for a bursary visit our website (www.as-et.org.uk)The companies listed below sponsor AS-ET. If you would like to join themfind out how to support us by looking at our website.BulletinMay 2014• 15AS-ET is a charity set up to advance education and promote excellence inthe care and welfare of animals used in science.To see how you can apply for a bursary visit our website (www.as-et.org.uk)The companies listed below sponsor AS-ET. If you would like to join themfind out how to support us by looking at our website.BulletinMay 2014• 15Bulletin18 •July 2020Jul20:IATB NEW 10/7/20 10:02 Page 18

Page 16

Bulletin16 • May 2021 During 2021, the IAT Equality and Diversity Groupaims to promote the protected characteristicsThis month,Let’s talk about ... Disability and the workplace According to the Family Resources Survey 2018/19, there are 14.1 million disabled people in the UK. There are seven million people of working age with a disability or long term health condition in the UK, only half of them are in work. This represents a huge pool of talent that businesses are potentially missing out on.What does disability mean? Disability is deﬁned differently for different purposes. For employment purposes in the UK, the deﬁnition is contained in the Equality Act 2010: a person is ‘disabled’ if they have a physical or mental impairment which has a substantial and long-term adverse effect on their ability to carry out normal day-to-day activities.‘Long-term’ means that the condition must last, or be likely to last, for more than 12 months, or is likely to last for the rest of the life of the person affected.Many disabled people (as well as those with long-term health conditions who are already in employment) either face prejudice or a lack of provision when it comes to the support they need to help them reach their potential or, sometimes, to even remain in work. Too many people working with a disability choose not to disclose it to their employer for fear of negative consequences (in terms of their career or job security) CIPD (2020)It has never been so important to raise disability awareness, as it is today. Having a physical or hidden disability should not impact on what anyone can achieve; people need to be deﬁned by their ability, and not their disability. Stephen Hawking, one of the greatest ever scientists, and role model was quoted: “Concentrate on things your disability doesn’t prevent you doing well, and don’t regret the things it interferes with. Don’t be disabled in spirit, as well as physically.” Stephen Hawking (interview in the New York Times, 2011)Disability discrimination may arise in many ways including:l direct discrimination (being treated unfairly because of a disability)l indirect discrimination (a policy, practice, or rule which applies to everyone in the same way but it has a worse effect on some than others)l harassment (subjecting another person to prejudice remarks or actions) l victimisation (treating someone badly)l failure to make reasonable adjustmentsWhat can I do as an Employer?1. Develop a diversity and inclusion policy detailing required training, reasonable adjustments and support available. A policy also demonstrates the organisation takes its legal and moral obligations towards being a diverse and inclusive employer seriously. It can also encourage employees to treat others equally.2. Reasonable adjustments must be considered with a speciﬁc individual and their speciﬁc role in mind. Adjustments can include:- Altering premises – such as automated doors, providing ramps, quiet spaces, alternative formats of signage or directions around the building.Let’s talk about ... Disability and the workplaceMental Health Awarenesswww.iat.org.uk- Altering assessment procedures – such as giving extra time, providing assistive technology or ergonomic equipment.- Training or mentoring – to support an employee to use new adjustments (such as speech to text software), or coping strategies (common with, for example, dyslexia or mental health conditions).- Modiﬁed or specialist equipment – such as supportive chairs, height-adjustable or standing desks.- Communication – providing an interpreter (for people who are, for example, deaf or who have a speech impairment).- Time off during working hours – for example, for hospital appointments, physiotherapy, counselling, or treatment.- Introduce ﬂexible working or adjusted hours.A line manager along with the employee and, for example, occupational health, may come up with a range of adjustments that might remove the barrier the employee with a disability or condition is experiencing but the employer needs to make an evidence-based decision if these adjustments are ‘reasonable’.What can I do as an employee with a disability?- If comfortable, talk to your co-workers, that way they can understand your disability, and will not make assumptions on your behalf.- If you are comfortable to do so, discuss your feelings. Let people know what you would ﬁnd most helpful.- If the workplace needs adjustments that will assist you, bring it to the attention of management.- If a situation makes you feel uncomfortable or excluded, and you feel comfortable to do so, speak out, and tell your co workers how the situation, excludes you being involved.How can we all help reduce disability discrimination? - Challenge stereotypical behaviour and thinking – unconscious bias can lead to bad decision making.- Promote a supportive and inclusive workplace.- Be open and talk about any issues as they may arise.- Ensure everyone receives the appropriate diversity and inclusion training provided by employers.- Relative related existing policies and practices which may have an impact on employees with a disability or long-term condition – for example, recruitment and selection, sickness and attendance, performance, grievance, bullying and harassment, and diversity and inclusion.Institute of Animal TechnologyCOUNCILEquality and Diversity Group

Page 17

BulletinMay 2021 • 17 During 2021, the IAT Equality and Diversity Groupaims to promote the protected characteristicsThis month,Let’s talk about ... Disability and the workplace According to the Family Resources Survey 2018/19, there are 14.1 million disabled people in the UK. There are seven million people of working age with a disability or long term health condition in the UK, only half of them are in work. This represents a huge pool of talent that businesses are potentially missing out on.What does disability mean? Disability is deﬁned differently for different purposes. For employment purposes in the UK, the deﬁnition is contained in the Equality Act 2010: a person is ‘disabled’ if they have a physical or mental impairment which has a substantial and long-term adverse effect on their ability to carry out normal day-to-day activities.‘Long-term’ means that the condition must last, or be likely to last, for more than 12 months, or is likely to last for the rest of the life of the person affected.Many disabled people (as well as those with long-term health conditions who are already in employment) either face prejudice or a lack of provision when it comes to the support they need to help them reach their potential or, sometimes, to even remain in work. Too many people working with a disability choose not to disclose it to their employer for fear of negative consequences (in terms of their career or job security) CIPD (2020)It has never been so important to raise disability awareness, as it is today. Having a physical or hidden disability should not impact on what anyone can achieve; people need to be deﬁned by their ability, and not their disability. Stephen Hawking, one of the greatest ever scientists, and role model was quoted: “Concentrate on things your disability doesn’t prevent you doing well, and don’t regret the things it interferes with. Don’t be disabled in spirit, as well as physically.” Stephen Hawking (interview in the New York Times, 2011)Disability discrimination may arise in many ways including:l direct discrimination (being treated unfairly because of a disability)l indirect discrimination (a policy, practice, or rule which applies to everyone in the same way but it has a worse effect on some than others)l harassment (subjecting another person to prejudice remarks or actions) l victimisation (treating someone badly)l failure to make reasonable adjustmentsWhat can I do as an Employer?1. Develop a diversity and inclusion policy detailing required training, reasonable adjustments and support available. A policy also demonstrates the organisation takes its legal and moral obligations towards being a diverse and inclusive employer seriously. It can also encourage employees to treat others equally.2. Reasonable adjustments must be considered with a speciﬁc individual and their speciﬁc role in mind. Adjustments can include:- Altering premises – such as automated doors, providing ramps, quiet spaces, alternative formats of signage or directions around the building.Let’s talk about ... Disability and the workplaceMental Health Awarenesswww.iat.org.uk- Altering assessment procedures – such as giving extra time, providing assistive technology or ergonomic equipment.- Training or mentoring – to support an employee to use new adjustments (such as speech to text software), or coping strategies (common with, for example, dyslexia or mental health conditions).- Modiﬁed or specialist equipment – such as supportive chairs, height-adjustable or standing desks.- Communication – providing an interpreter (for people who are, for example, deaf or who have a speech impairment).- Time off during working hours – for example, for hospital appointments, physiotherapy, counselling, or treatment.- Introduce ﬂexible working or adjusted hours.A line manager along with the employee and, for example, occupational health, may come up with a range of adjustments that might remove the barrier the employee with a disability or condition is experiencing but the employer needs to make an evidence-based decision if these adjustments are ‘reasonable’.What can I do as an employee with a disability?- If comfortable, talk to your co-workers, that way they can understand your disability, and will not make assumptions on your behalf.- If you are comfortable to do so, discuss your feelings. Let people know what you would ﬁnd most helpful.- If the workplace needs adjustments that will assist you, bring it to the attention of management.- If a situation makes you feel uncomfortable or excluded, and you feel comfortable to do so, speak out, and tell your co workers how the situation, excludes you being involved.How can we all help reduce disability discrimination? - Challenge stereotypical behaviour and thinking – unconscious bias can lead to bad decision making.- Promote a supportive and inclusive workplace.- Be open and talk about any issues as they may arise.- Ensure everyone receives the appropriate diversity and inclusion training provided by employers.- Relative related existing policies and practices which may have an impact on employees with a disability or long-term condition – for example, recruitment and selection, sickness and attendance, performance, grievance, bullying and harassment, and diversity and inclusion.Institute of Animal TechnologyCOUNCILEquality and Diversity Group

Page 18

Page 19

BulletinMay 2021 • 19 Surrey, Hampshire and Sussex Branch Annual General MeetingThe SH&S Branch met (via Zoom) for its AGM on the evening of Wednesday the 3rd February. Thank you to Nikki Stevens and Allan Thornhill for their assistance with providing the IAT Zoom set up. The meeting started with apologies, minutes of the previous meeting and matters arising. Fran presented the Secretary’s Report. Due to the various restrictions and lockdowns, the Branch only held one ‘normal’ meeting, which was the previous AGM. Two events planned for 2020, an inter Branch Dragon Boat Race and a marine conservation talk both had to be cancelled. On a positive note, a team of Branch members did take part in the London Branch virtual quiz. The committee met (via Zoom) on two occasions and we also had members attend various Branch Reps and BING Zoom meetings last year. Stuart then presented the Treasurer’s Report. He reported that the Branch had funds of £2013 and was pleased to report he had managed, after a long delay, to retrieve funds held in a Santander Account, which the Bank would not release because of signature issues caused by changes of ofﬁcials. We had an election of ofﬁcers and committee via the Zoom voting system.Stuart Mackrell was re-elected as Chairman Fran Whitmore was re-elected as Secretary Stuart Stevenson was re-elected as Treasurer The committee of Marc Lind, Lesley Hughes, Sammie Lupton, Melissa Vaughan were re-elected on block. Sue Parker was also voted onto the committee. We then discussed possible meetings for the year. As well as those meetings that had to be cancelled. Other suggestions were Oktoberfest and the horse racing event at Ascot. Additionally – a possible presentation associated with the RSPCA, which Penny Hawkins offered to provide information on. All meetings would be dependent on the COVID situation later in the year.

Page 20

Page 21

Page 22

Bulletin22 • May 2021 If you’d like to look at all of the fantastic feedback that has been left for staff and teams by their colleagues, visit datesand.com/thankyouAs our NEW Departmental Safety Ocer, Helen has worked tirelessly trying to keep abreast of the ever changing COVID19 guidelines, to keep us all safe while we tend to the animals in our care. She has completed this while working from home, with all the challenges this has when living alone. Helen deserves recognition for this work and this would be one way to show my appreciation.- Deborah Adams, Cardiff UniversityAs a manager Paul, has worked hard to keep us all safe and adapt quickly to the challenges from Covid. He has always made time for any of his team to speak to him about any concerns they might have. Although he is not able to be on site much due to company policy he has gone above and beyond to be there virtually as much as he can.- Toni Clark, University College LondonNatalie has been a committed member of staff and during the covid-19 period had stepped into a new seconded role as a room leader and senior member of staff. She has worked tirelessly and effortlessly to support the animal research, in particular the welfare of the mice in the unit, using her skill set to support the team and research staff through a dicult period. - Nicky Jacobs, CRUK CambridgeThe PK team have worked tirelessly over the year as we have grown the in-vivoPK offering. Providing an excellent service to our clients and without any complaints, even when it’s been a complete mad house. Couldn’t have got the area off the ground without their hard work, dedication and good humour.- Zara Turnbull, Sygnature DiscoveryThe Biomedical Research Facility Team, like so many other animal technicians, have continued caring for animals and supporting vital research studies throughout the pandemic. The BRF team have embraced change through this period introducing more ecient working practices. Their dedication and commitment has been acknowledged by the Vice Chancellor and other Senior University staff.- Andrew Cunningham, University of SussexSaffron only started with us in November last year and has proved herself to be extremely helpful and reliable all through the lock down period where we were all lone working .This was a huge responsibility for someone so young and new to the industry and has shown commitment and maturity on her part.- Julie Walker, Brunel University LondonIf you’d like to look at all of the fantastic feedback that has been left for staff and teams by their colleagues, visit datesand.com/thankyouAs our NEW Departmental Safety Ocer, Helen has worked tirelessly trying to keep abreast of the ever changing COVID19 guidelines, to keep us all safe while we tend to the animals in our care. She has completed this while working from home, with all the challenges this has when living alone. Helen deserves recognition for this work and this would be one way to show my appreciation.- Deborah Adams, Cardiff UniversityAs a manager Paul, has worked hard to keep us all safe and adapt quickly to the challenges from Covid. He has always made time for any of his team to speak to him about any concerns they might have. Although he is not able to be on site much due to company policy he has gone above and beyond to be there virtually as much as he can.- Toni Clark, University College LondonNatalie has been a committed member of staff and during the covid-19 period had stepped into a new seconded role as a room leader and senior member of staff. She has worked tirelessly and effortlessly to support the animal research, in particular the welfare of the mice in the unit, using her skill set to support the team and research staff through a dicult period. - Nicky Jacobs, CRUK CambridgeThe PK team have worked tirelessly over the year as we have grown the in-vivoPK offering. Providing an excellent service to our clients and without any complaints, even when it’s been a complete mad house. Couldn’t have got the area off the ground without their hard work, dedication and good humour.- Zara Turnbull, Sygnature DiscoveryThe Biomedical Research Facility Team, like so many other animal technicians, have continued caring for animals and supporting vital research studies throughout the pandemic. The BRF team have embraced change through this period introducing more ecient working practices. Their dedication and commitment has been acknowledged by the Vice Chancellor and other Senior University staff.- Andrew Cunningham, University of SussexSaffron only started with us in November last year and has proved herself to be extremely helpful and reliable all through the lock down period where we were all lone working .This was a huge responsibility for someone so young and new to the industry and has shown commitment and maturity on her part.- Julie Walker, Brunel University LondonIndustry News

Page 23

BulletinMay 2021 • 23If you’d like to look at all of the fantastic feedback that has been left for staff and teams by their colleagues, visit datesand.com/thankyouAs our NEW Departmental Safety Ocer, Helen has worked tirelessly trying to keep abreast of the ever changing COVID19 guidelines, to keep us all safe while we tend to the animals in our care. She has completed this while working from home, with all the challenges this has when living alone. Helen deserves recognition for this work and this would be one way to show my appreciation.- Deborah Adams, Cardiff UniversityAs a manager Paul, has worked hard to keep us all safe and adapt quickly to the challenges from Covid. He has always made time for any of his team to speak to him about any concerns they might have. Although he is not able to be on site much due to company policy he has gone above and beyond to be there virtually as much as he can.- Toni Clark, University College LondonNatalie has been a committed member of staff and during the covid-19 period had stepped into a new seconded role as a room leader and senior member of staff. She has worked tirelessly and effortlessly to support the animal research, in particular the welfare of the mice in the unit, using her skill set to support the team and research staff through a dicult period. - Nicky Jacobs, CRUK CambridgeThe PK team have worked tirelessly over the year as we have grown the in-vivoPK offering. Providing an excellent service to our clients and without any complaints, even when it’s been a complete mad house. Couldn’t have got the area off the ground without their hard work, dedication and good humour.- Zara Turnbull, Sygnature DiscoveryThe Biomedical Research Facility Team, like so many other animal technicians, have continued caring for animals and supporting vital research studies throughout the pandemic. The BRF team have embraced change through this period introducing more ecient working practices. Their dedication and commitment has been acknowledged by the Vice Chancellor and other Senior University staff.- Andrew Cunningham, University of SussexSaffron only started with us in November last year and has proved herself to be extremely helpful and reliable all through the lock down period where we were all lone working .This was a huge responsibility for someone so young and new to the industry and has shown commitment and maturity on her part.- Julie Walker, Brunel University LondonFront cover: Armadillo Courtesy: Alan Palmer DIARY DatesEvents/Dates subject to change due to the current quarantine situation and possible ongoing restrictions.11,18,25 May6th Meeting of LASA LARN Details: https://www.lasa.co.uk/lasameetings12 May10 years of CRACK IT webinar: Rodent Behavioural monitoring … what have you been missing?NC3RsDetails: https://nc3rs.org.uk/events/10-years-crack-it-webinar-rodent-behavioural- monitoring-what-have-you-been- missing?utm_campaign=March+ 2021&utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery18 MayNTCO Virtual WorkshopThe Learning CurveDetails: Info@LearningCurveDevelopment.co.uk25 MayLegislation Update Virtual WorkshopThe Learning CurveDetails: Info@LearningCurveDevelopment.co.uk4,7,11,18 JuneLooking Back, Reaching Forward60th CALAS/ACSAL Annual Symposium Online. Details: https://calas-acsal.org/site/symposium/annual?nav=sidebar9 JuneNIO Virtual WorkshopThe Learning CurveDetails: Info@LearningCurveDevelopment.co.uk9 JuneIntroduction to Microbiological Monitoring in Rodents FacilitiesFondazione Guido Bernardinihttps://www.fondazioneguidobernardini.org/en/programs/online-course-introduction-to-microbiological-monitoring-in-rodents-facilities.html27 JuneIn aid of the Grifﬁ n InstituteLondon Bridges WalkDetails: http://grifﬁ ninstitute.org.uk/bridgesTo View NowEfﬁ cient management of genetically altered mouse coloniesNC3Rs/Mary Lyons CentreTo view: https://vimeo.com/ 518501136/ 2fc46ddd3e?utm_campaign=March+2021&utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdeliveryEvery Wednesday at 15.30Coffee and a chatOnlineDetails: Page 18If you’d like to look at all of the fantastic feedback that has been left for staff and teams by their colleagues, visit datesand.com/thankyouAs our NEW Departmental Safety Ocer, Helen has worked tirelessly trying to keep abreast of the ever changing COVID19 guidelines, to keep us all safe while we tend to the animals in our care. She has completed this while working from home, with all the challenges this has when living alone. Helen deserves recognition for this work and this would be one way to show my appreciation.- Deborah Adams, Cardiff UniversityAs a manager Paul, has worked hard to keep us all safe and adapt quickly to the challenges from Covid. He has always made time for any of his team to speak to him about any concerns they might have. Although he is not able to be on site much due to company policy he has gone above and beyond to be there virtually as much as he can.- Toni Clark, University College LondonNatalie has been a committed member of staff and during the covid-19 period had stepped into a new seconded role as a room leader and senior member of staff. She has worked tirelessly and effortlessly to support the animal research, in particular the welfare of the mice in the unit, using her skill set to support the team and research staff through a dicult period. - Nicky Jacobs, CRUK CambridgeThe PK team have worked tirelessly over the year as we have grown the in-vivoPK offering. Providing an excellent service to our clients and without any complaints, even when it’s been a complete mad house. Couldn’t have got the area off the ground without their hard work, dedication and good humour.- Zara Turnbull, Sygnature DiscoveryThe Biomedical Research Facility Team, like so many other animal technicians, have continued caring for animals and supporting vital research studies throughout the pandemic. The BRF team have embraced change through this period introducing more ecient working practices. Their dedication and commitment has been acknowledged by the Vice Chancellor and other Senior University staff.- Andrew Cunningham, University of SussexSaffron only started with us in November last year and has proved herself to be extremely helpful and reliable all through the lock down period where we were all lone working .This was a huge responsibility for someone so young and new to the industry and has shown commitment and maturity on her part.- Julie Walker, Brunel University London

May 2021

Page 1

Page 2

Page 3