We recognise the unease and concern that some members of our University community have felt in recent weeks, following the affiliation of the Pro-Life Society at the Students’ Union.
Our Students’ Union has a legal duty to approve a society if it is not breaking the law, as they have laid out in an extensive statement on the status of the Society.
There has been intense debate on our campus, including a recent protest.
We encourage our students to engage in lawful debate and we support peaceful and respectful protest, as well as the right to free speech and expression within the law. We affirm that any and all forms of harassment, intimidation and abuse have no place in our community.
We are also aware that there was some interference with the protest from outside of our University community, where misogynistic comments were directed at students – this is unacceptable and we support the right of our students to protest safely.
Open dialogue
Our Students’ Union has met with the organisers of the protest to discuss addressing concerns constructively and will publish a follow-up statement that will highlight further actions they will take, based on student feedback.
Your questions, answered
Relevant legislation in this area requires Universities and Students Unions to protect and ensure lawful freedom of speech. We are hosting an online open meeting in partnership with our Students’ Union to give you the opportunity to put questions about freedom of speech on campus to the elected SU Exec Officers and senior University leaders.
We are in the process of confirming a date and time, but you can register your interest and we will notify you once this is set.
Student support
We have an extensive support offer available to any student who has been affected by this issue:
- Counselling and Mental Health Service for students.
- 24-hour mental health helpline and wellbeing app.
- Our Multi Faith Chaplaincy welcomes people of all faith and none.
- Student Safety Support
- SafeZone App, designed to help keep you safe.
- Additional support services are detailed on our Student Support page.
Report and support
- Both the University’s Report and Support Team and the Students’ Union Advice Centre have trained advisors ready to provide support if you or someone you know has experienced or witnessed any form of hate, or has a safeguarding concern.
Mitigating circumstances
- If there are circumstances affecting your studies, you may be able to request support under our mitigating circumstances procedures.
University GP Service
- We offer an on-campus GP service, which also provides access to contraceptive and reproductive services.