Civic Engagement

Discover how our staff and students support local people, organisations and causes, and find out how to get involved.

Working to make a difference

We are passionate about civic engagement, which means we work to make a positive difference to our communities.

This happens in many different ways, from sharing the impact of our research and academic expertise through to supporting our staff, students and alumni to engage with the local community.

Abertay takes a broad view of civic engagement, and we encourage everyone to get involved where they can. Our Staff Volunteering Scheme gives every colleague a day each year to help local organisations achieve their goals.

Through student placements, joint projects, public outreach and community collaborations, we are able to make a real difference across Dundee and the Tay Cities Region.

Why do we engage?

Our civic activities seek to create impact across the areas shown here. This wide-ranging approach encourages the Abertay community to think about civic engagement in everything they do.

  • Social impact.

  • Environment, climate and biodiversity.

  • Health and wellbeing.

  • Cultural contribution.

  • Economic impact.

  • Estates, facilities and placemaking.

  • Institutional strategy and leadership.

About our Civic Engagement Strategy

Our Civic Engagement Strategy sets out our ambitions for supporting the region. It also demonstrates how this important work links to the 2025-30 Abertay Strategy. Essentially it is a fundamental element of what it means to be involved in the Abertay community.

Through to 2030 and beyond we commit to:

  • Supporting community priorities through our expertise, facilities and people.

  • Strengthening our relationships with key regional partners.

  • Communicating with our communities and sharing our impact.

Three graduates in black caps and gowns smiling and posing with a large red “I did it!” frame.
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Our Staff in the Community

Meet some of the Abertay staff who are using their skills and expertise to support local communities and inspire future generations

A headshot of Beth, who has red hair and black framed glasses, she wears a dark blazer and black top with white spots, she smiles facing the camera.

Beth Thomas

Beth turned a day at the Dundee Kiltwalk into practical support for people affected by cancer, raising more than £200 for Maggie’s Centre.

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Lara Wood

Lara shared her research expertise to support a local project focused on improving mental health support for men in Dundee and the surrounding area.

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A portrait of Claire, who has short brown hair and black frame glasses, she wears a navy blue blouse with red flowers. Standing in a classroom with chairs in the background, there is text on the image that reads 'Claire Gammie, Widening Access and College Recruitment Officer'.

Claire Gammie

Claire organised an on-campus taster day for young carers that helped break down barriers and made higher education feel more accessible.

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A woman with short brown hair standing in a classroom.

Karen Barton

Karen, Jon and their colleagues brought food science, nutrition and healthy choices to life for secondary school pupils through practical activities.

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Fahd Asif

Fahd volunteers as a presenter with Bridge FM Hospital Radio, using music to support patient wellbeing and strengthen connections with the community.

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Staff Volunteering

Staff can to take one day (or two half days) off each year to support an organisation of their choice.

This is booked just like annual leave, and colleagues can coordinate time with others so they can work together.

Not sure where to start? Check out the Dundee Volunteer & Voluntary Action website for inspiration.

For more information on how to book your day, visit the Staff Volunteering Scheme intranet page.

Find out more

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