For those newer to the sector or not yet on top of how UHR can help them, we will be releasing a set of mini-films this year, the first of which is online now. We promise this series won’t extend endlessly and become a kind of X-Men style franchise, not least because we tried the costumes on and they didn’t fit. But when given the chance to explain our work, the UHR team weren’t at all shy. Hope you enjoy.
12-14 May 2026
#UHR26 is our flagship virtual conference, created to deliver exceptional value and high-quality professional development for HR colleagues across our member universities. Designed to fit around busy working lives, the fully virtual format makes it easy for whole teams to take part. With the 2026 programme now released, delegates can look forward to an engaging mix of headline speakers, specialist workshops and interactive breakout sessions, alongside rich opportunities for networking and peer-to-peer learning. Bringing together leading voices from within and beyond the sector, #UHR26 promises three inspiring days of fresh insight, shared experience and forward-thinking discussion focused on the challenges and opportunities shaping HR in higher education.
The UHR Awards 2026 celebrate the creativity, innovation and impact of people professionals across higher education. They shine a light on forward-thinking practice that strengthens organisational culture and drives performance across UK universities, while supporting shared learning and professional development across the sector. Whether you’re reflecting on a successful project or recognising exceptional individuals, applying is a valuable opportunity to celebrate your team’s work, with winners announced at the UHR Conference 2026. Nominations close Friday 6 March.
Join us at the next online UHR Inclusive Futures Network Meeting to connect, share learning, and shape practice. On Wed 28 January at 10am we'll be joined by David Collington of Barnett Waddingham to discuss talent retention in an increasingly competitive environment. David will be presenting BW's research, including how AI is impacting recruitment, roles and retention.
Join us at the next online UHR REF, Research Assessment & Research Culture Network Meeting to connect, share learning, and shape practice. On Thursday 29 January we will hear all about "Hidden REF" and how we can make the contribution of people professionals more visible, with Prof. Simon Herrick.
We are joined by James Shen from Vialto China to take us through tax and social security information for sending employees to China
Our mentoring scheme is open to all UHR members and aims to pair mentors with mentees to develop specific areas of expertise related to human resource. We’re excited to partner with SUMAC, who are hosting our membership platform, meaning that sign-up and matching of mentors and mentees will be hassle-free.
