We’re delighted to share that six CIPD Manchester Volunteers are joining other people professionals as part of the CIPD Annual Conference and Exhibition People Library.
The desire to learn from each other has never been greater. Browse through the stories available and ‘check out’ a storyteller that intrigues you, who will then tell their story through dialogue.
You’ll be able to hear, first-hand, experiences from a wide variety of people – whether they have faced great adversity, tackled challenges or have grown in different ways.

Vice-Chair and Public Policy Advisor
Scar tissue: the hidden challenges of invisible disability – Emma Brookes
Sharing personal journeys reduces stigma and misunderstanding and establishes more compassionate workplaces. Emma explores the value and impact of speaking openly in her workplace about her experiences with mental health and chronic pain issues.
3 November 11:00-12:00 only

Branch Ambassador
Achieving work-life balance in a hybrid world – Gary Cookson
Drawing on personal anecdotes and learning, Gary will help you understand the key challenges inherent in achieving work-life balance whilst operating in a hybrid working environment.
All sessions

Membership Engagement Lead
Fast-track career change: lessons from changing career and country during the pandemic – Emma Clayton
The pandemic has impacted us all, but for Emma, it resulted in a career change into HR and a move from Barcelona to Manchester. Come and reflect on lessons you can apply for yourself and in supporting others in fast-track career change journeys!
3 November 14:00-15:00 and 4 November 11:00-12:00 only

Vice-Chair and Inclusion & Diversity Lead
Five under five: some do’s and don’ts of supporting parents returning to work – Samantha Lubanzu
What does it take to create a supportive “return to work” environment for parents? Hear Samantha’s story of having five children under five and the consequences for the individual and organisation of getting it right… and wrong!
4 November 11:00-12:00 and 14:00-15:00 only

Branch Chair
How getting your pencils out can make you more effective at work – Rachel Burnham
Don’t underestimate how simple drawings enhance effective working. See practical ideas of sketches, that anyone can adopt, to help with planning, thinking, idea sharing, note-taking and reflection. It’s time to tap into your hidden creativity!
3 November 11:00-12:00 and 14:00-15:00, and 4 November 14:00-15:00 only

Student and Centres Engagement Lead
Strategic well-being: a step-by-step guide and story – Marta Davenport
Come and hear a practical account of how wellbeing can be implemented at strategic with a simple step-by-step guide as to how it was done.
All sessions