Where I can get my Brookes email id?
You should have received an email with your Brookes ID in it. This is called your 'P' number. You can get your email id set up from the IT service desk which is in the forum. Just walk in with your work computer and they will set it up for you.
How do I get my staff id card?
The Finance & Resources team will apply for your card and once it is ready to collect you will get a confirmation email. After that, you can collect it from the JHB building reception. You will need to set up your room access with your line manager. This document explains how.
I need support with IT systems or software, where I can get support?
If you need any IT support you can contact our IT service desk
How to set up your email signature?
Open Gmail.
At the top right, click Settings See all settings.
In the 'Signature' section, add the text of your signature to the box. If you want to, you can format your message by adding an image or changing the text style.
At the bottom of the page, click Save Changes.
I want to know about the sickness policy, where I can find it?
You can refer to the sickness policy here
How do I book annual leave?
You can check our annual leave policy here and your remaining holidays on Breathe HR portal and apply from the portal itself. Your line manager will make a decision once the request has been made. Ideally, no leave should be booked during Fresher's Week (end of Sept), Elections (normally in March) and you should discuss with your line manager before booking leave during Officer Induction (July).
Where I can claim a reimbursement for an expense?
You need to fill in the expenses form along with the proof of purchase and send it to the finance team and your line manager for approval. Please, don't forget to attach the purchase receipt to the form.
I need help with expenses, pay, and pension, who can I ask?
You can email su.finance@brookes.ac.uk
I need help with my contract or an HR issue - who can I ask?
You can email su.hr@brookes.ac.uk
How to get the gym discount?
Just show your staff card at the gym while signing up.
I want to work flexibly, how can I put in a request?
You can get all the needed information about flexible working here.
What is my dress code?
The Union does not operate a formal dress code, other than for those who are provided with a uniform and/or protective clothing. However, please ensure that you dress appropriately for the situation in which you are working and present a professional image. Please note that staff are not permitted to wear clothing/badges carrying Party political identifiers or slogans; staff may also not display clothing/badges which support political positions unless those positions directly align with Union policy as passed by the Union’s all-members meeting or other democratic procedure.
When I will get paid?
You will be paid on the last working day of each month, except in December when we process pay early due to the Christmas closure.
When I'm concerned about something.
Don't keep it to yourself, let's talk. All employees have access to an Employee Assistance Programme which gives you immediate access to online resources and various therapies including talking therapies. It's entirely free for you, and entirely confidential. If you feel comfortable, reach out to your line manager who may be able to help by making changes, if your issue is work-related. This can also involve completing a stress risk assessment or a referral to occupational health. If you don't feel comfortable doing that, you can also speak to any member of SLT.
Changing processes
Do you think there's something that could be done better/quicker/more effectively? We would love to hear about it!
There's a training course or conference I'd like to attend
We'd love to support you with your professional development. Please share details of any learning and development you'd like to undertake with your line manager and they can discuss this with you.
What are staff loans how can I use them?
We are able to offer employees an interest-free loan of up to £1000 to support them with anything they need to keep working. This might be for a bike, a season ticket, to pay an unexpected bill, a boiler repair or to support with relocation costs and rental deposits. For more information please see the policy and agreement here.
How to set up the Wisdom app?
Download the Wisdom app from the App Store/ Google Play Store and enter the employer/unique code to use the app.
We have a Staff Handbook that gives you lots of information you will find useful in your time here at Brookes Union. If you have any questions on any aspect of these, please speak to your line manager.