Value Statement

MEP Value Statement

We are the Modelling, Evidence and Policy group at the School of Natural and Environmental Sciences a Newcastle University. We strive to provide an environment (both on and off campus) where everyone can thrive, and we value the participation of every member of our community. Our collective ethos is to support each member to fulfill their potential, as part of a team founded on mutual respect.

This statement describes our shared vision for MEP, based on our values of respect, integrity, creativity and teamwork.

Respect
We recognise that everyone in our group needs to feel safe, respected, and valued, regardless of their characteristics, culture or experience. We recognise that our actions and inactions matter.

• We strive for an empathetic working environment of trust and respect; we listen to and respect the
  perspectives and experiences of every group member, and take issues of discrimination seriously.
  
  
• We challenge and inform ourselves on issues and barriers faced by the different groups listed in 1,
  and work to talk openly on such issues.
  
  
• We take action to tackle direct and indirect discrimination, harassment, and victimisation.

Integrity
We strive for research integrity, making sure the methods we use are ethical and robust, presented with transparency and honesty. We follow the FAIR data principles (Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, Reusable).

• We endeavour to provide an open and safe environment for the discussion of our research. We
  ensure everyone has the opportunity both to present their work and comment constructively on
  others’ work.
  
  
• We communicate our research findings openly and honestly.
  
  
• We recognise research contributions fairly within and outside the group.

Creativity
We work creatively to identify new ideas and ways of working.

• We provide an environment in which every group member thrives and has the time to be creative.
  
  
• We strive to take academic risks without fear of failure. This includes using new methods and ways
  of working.
  
  
• We seek viewpoints outside our own, for example through interdisciplinary working, and ensuring
  our group membership is diverse.

Teamwork
We are a supportive and inclusive team where everyone’s contribution is valued.

• We encourage a flat management structure where everyone participates, is listened to, and all
  views are taken into account.
  
  
• We promote a positive environment. Our activities are accessible to all and we encourage everyone
  to take part.

• We recognise each other’s strengths and help each other where we can, without undue pressures.

• We celebrate our efforts and successes equally.

1 By characteristics, culture or experience, we mean everyone regardless of their age, disability, genderreassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, gender, or sexual orientation, as defined by the UK Equality Act. We acknowledge other identities too, including, but not limited to, socio-economic class, national identity, career stage, people for which English is not their first language, people who suffer from physical and mental health illnesses. We recognise that, at the intersections of these identities, people face unique ways in which they may be discriminated against.