Supporting Our Community Following the Death of Professor Jason Arday

UCU Sussex extends its condolences to all those affected by the death of Professor Jason Arday.

We recognise that this news may have affected colleagues in different ways. Professor Arday’s scholarship, public engagement and advocacy held particular significance for many Black colleagues and colleagues from other racialised and minoritised backgrounds. His passing, alongside the public discussion surrounding his life and work, may understandably give rise to feelings of grief, sadness, anger, distress, concern or reflection.

At times like these, it is important to remember that support is available. We encourage members who are struggling with the news, or who simply need space to process their thoughts and feelings, to make use of the resources available to them.

Specialist Support and Resources

Several organisations provide culturally informed mental health and bereavement support, including:

Black Minds Matter UK

Provides mental health resources and helps people access Black therapists and culturally appropriate support.

BAATN (Black, African and Asian Therapy Network)

Offers a directory of counsellors, psychotherapists and psychologists, with a particular focus on Black, African, Asian and Caribbean communities.

Website: https://www.baatn.org.uk
Email: administrator@baatn.org.uk

RESET MH

Provides culturally appropriate mental health support for people from African and Caribbean backgrounds.

The New Normal: Black and Brown Good Grief

Provides bereavement support for people from ethnic minority backgrounds.

National Bereavement Alliance

Offers information and signposting to bereavement services across the UK, including support tailored to specific cultural and community groups.

BAME HUB-UK Network

Provides culturally informed support and signposting for people from Black, Asian and minority ethnic communities. The organisation raises awareness of mental health inequalities and can connect individuals with specialist support networks, including mental health and suicide prevention services.

Employee Assistance Programme (EAP)

Members may also wish to access the University’s Employee Assistance Programme (EAP), delivered through AXA.

The service includes:

• 24/7 confidential support from qualified professionals by phone, online or in person
• Up to eight face-to-face counselling sessions
• Support with stress, anxiety, bereavement, family matters and other personal concerns
• Financial and legal advice
• Wellbeing resources to support mental, physical and emotional health

Telephone: 0800 072 7072
Website: www.axabesupported.co.uk
Access Code: A527752

Further information is also available through the University’s intranet.

Looking After Ourselves and Each Other

It is important to remember that you do not need to have known someone personally for their death to affect you. The loss of a public figure, academic, activist or advocate whose work resonated with your own experiences and identity can have a profound emotional impact.

If you are finding the news difficult, please take the time and space you need. Consider speaking with trusted colleagues, friends or family members, or accessing one of the support services listed above.

If you feel you would benefit from workplace support or adjustments, please speak with your line manager in the first instance or contact the People and Development team in confidence hr@ucu.org.uk

UCU Sussex remains committed to supporting members and fostering a compassionate and inclusive community during difficult times.