Content warning: This article includes reference to sexual harassment and violence and may be triggering to some readers.
Our commitment
We’re committed to tackling gender-based violence (GBV) by becoming one of the first universities in England to engage with the EmilyTest GBV Charter pilot.
Along with other universities like Anglia Ruskin, Birmingham City, East London, and Warwick, we’re helping implement the EmilyTest GBV Charter for the English education system. This is in line with the new Office for Students Condition of Registration around harassment and sexual misconduct, beginning on 1 August 2025.
Dr. Simon Merrywest, Executive Director for the Student Experience
“We are proud to be one of the first English universities taking part in the EmilyTest pilot following its successful run in Scotland.
Unfortunately, gender-based violence remains a prevalent issue throughout the UK higher education system today, and we will continue to do whatever it takes to keep all of our students safe and protected both on campus and in their residences.
Having got to know Fiona through a shared interest in suicide prevention and hearing her give powerful voice to Emily’s experiences and the aims of EmilyTest, I had no hesitation in us signing up. We look forward to taking part in this very worthy initiative, learning from it, and making impactful changes over the next six months and beyond.“
What is EmilyTest?
EmilyTest was founded by Fiona Drouet after the tragic loss of her daughter, Emily, who was a law student. Emily died by suicide following physical and psychological abuse by a fellow student while living in halls of residence. Fiona established the EmilyTest charity to ensure no other victims and survivors are left unsupported and at risk. The Charter sets minimum standards in GBV prevention, intervention, and support, asking if policies, practices, and procedures would have saved Emily’s life: ‘Would they pass the Emily test?’.
What resources can I access?
Report & Support
Our University already has a specialist safeguarding team, Advice and Response, who provide holistic, trauma-informed support to students who have experienced any form of GBV, harassment, or hate. The team is made up of specialist caseworkers who provide confidential, practical, and emotional support to students directly and signpost to other services.
SafeZone app
We’ve also made campus safety a key priority by adopting the SafeZone app. This app allows for faster response times when urgent help is needed on campus or in the city. You can use the SafeZone app to ‘check in’ at any time of the day, quickly and discreetly call for assistance, and get medical help quickly.
Drop-in sessions
Additionally, we’ve partnered with our Students’ Union to provide sexual violence support drop-in sessions, which are open to anyone looking for support. The next drop-in session is Thursday 1st May, 12pm – 2pm.