In this episode, Paul and Nic are joined by colleagues Fartun Abdirahman and Nafysa Adam-Khan from the University of Salford's Respect, Culture and Behaviours (RCB) Team to discuss hate crime, internal support, and how culture change helps create safer, more inclusive learning and working environments.

Part of a special series developed in collaboration with the RCB Team, this conversation explores the impact that hate and identity-based harm can have on individuals and communities, affecting a person's sense of safety, belonging and wellbeing. The discussion focuses on what hate crime can look like, including in the workplace or on placement, the different forms it can take, and why recognising and challenging harmful behaviours is essential.

The episode also highlights the support available to apprentices, learners and staff, including routes for seeking advice, accessing support services, and reporting concerns. Through open discussion and shared insights, this episode considers how everyone can contribute to a culture of respect, inclusion and allyship, helping to drive positive culture change across the University and beyond.

In this episode, Paul and Nic are joined by colleagues Anna Jenson and Danielle Swidrak from the University of Salford's Respect, Culture and Behaviours (RCB) Team to explore sexual violence, its impact on individuals and communities, and the support available to those affected.

Part of a special series developed in collaboration with the RCB Team, this conversation builds on earlier episodes by examining the importance of understanding consent, recognising harmful behaviours, and creating safer, more inclusive learning and working environments. The discussion also outlines the different reporting options available, along with the specialist support services that can help individuals make informed choices about what happens next.

In this episode, Paul and Nic are joined by colleagues Dannii Swidrak and Anna Jensen from the University of Salford's Respect, Culture and Behaviours (RCB) Team to discuss relationship abuse, coercive control, honour-based abuse, and the support available to apprentices, learners and staff who may be experiencing harmful, controlling or threatening behaviour.

Part of a series with the RCB Team, this episode examines various forms and impacts of abuse on individuals, families, and communities. It highlights warning signs, the importance of seeking support, and available options for those affected or concerned.

Listeners are encouraged to think about how workplaces and educational settings can promote respect, safety, and inclusion.

In this episode, Paul and Nic are joined by colleagues Nafysa Adam-Khan and Danielle Swidrak from the University of Salford's Respect, Culture and Behaviours (RCB) Team to discuss the team's role and the Report It system.

In this episode, we are joined by Police Constable Sarah O'Toole, a Police Constable Degree Apprenticeship (PCDA) apprentice with Greater Manchester Police, who shares her inspiring journey into policing. From managing an OFSTED-registered preschool in Cornwall to working as a SEND officer for a local authority, Sarah reflects on the diverse experiences that shaped her decision to pursue a career dedicated to public service.

Sarah discusses what it is like to undertake a degree apprenticeship as a mature apprentice, the challenges and rewards of changing careers, and her commitment to giving back to the community. She also explores how her background in education and special educational needs has fuelled her passion for improving the experiences of neurodivergent individuals who come into contact with policing, particularly those in police custody.

As part of her academic and professional development, Sarah is currently researching the prevalence and impact of neurodevelopmental disabilities within the public and the implications for the policing role, with the aim of promoting greater understanding, more inclusive practice, and improved outcomes for those accessing police services. Through her story, Sarah highlights the value of lived experience, inclusive practice, and compassionate policing in creating better outcomes for individuals and communities alike.

Welcome to the Mind the Skills Gap Apprenticeship Podcast, with hosts Paul McCurry and Nicole Blythe brought to you by the University of Salford.    

In this episode, we shine a spotlight on the role of the Police Constable Degree Apprenticeship (PCDA) Learning and Development Coach. We’re joined by Hannah Melia, who explains how she supports apprentices, employers, and academic teams through personalised coaching, inclusive learning, and confidence-building that helps apprentices thrive. 

Together, we explore why the LDC role is so vital to a successful apprenticeship journey.  

This episode is perfect for apprentices, employers, and education professionals who want to understand how Learning and Development Coaches support success and growth in apprenticeship programmes. 

Welcome to the Mind the Skills Gap Apprenticeship Podcast, with hosts Paul McCurry and Nicole Blythe brought to you by the University of Salford.

In this episode of Mind the Skills Gap, we speak with Amy Janette McGregor – a freelance content creator, broadcaster, student, and passionate women’s football fan. Amy shares her personal and professional journey, discussing how her experiences have shaped her career in digital media and content creation.

The conversation explores Amy’s work supporting apprenticeships at the University of Salford, where she helps showcase apprentice stories and opportunities through engaging digital content. She reflects on the value of authentic storytelling and the impact that effective digital communication can have in raising awareness and inspiring others.

Amy also highlights the importance of digital inclusion, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to access, understand, and benefit from digital technologies. Alongside this, she discusses the growing significance of building a strong digital profile, and how developing an online presence can open doors to learning, networking, and career opportunities.

This inspiring episode offers valuable insights into creativity, lifelong learning, and the role digital skills play in helping people thrive in education and the workplace.

Welcome to the Mind the Skills Gap Apprenticeship Podcast, with hosts Paul McCurry and Nicole Blythe brought to you by the University of Salford.

In this episode, award-winning student representative Melissa shares her experience of championing apprentice student voices and helping shape positive change at the University of Salford.

Alongside insights from Module Leader Liz on the importance of staff-student collaboration, the discussion explores why representation matters, how even small changes can make a big difference, and how student voice is not only about addressing challenges but also recognising and building on what students value most.