Whilst university and higher education provide a uniquely enriching and formative experience for most students, it can also bring with it a wide range of challenges, from mental health issues to personal safety and well-being. These can be complicated by the fact that the vast majority of students may have not experienced living independently for the first time, away from their families and their support networks.
All universities and centres of higher education have a responsibility to safeguard their students so that they can take full advantage of the learning experience and development that universities offer in a safe and secure environment. Alongside the support services and structures that universities put in place, clear guidance needs to be offered, so that members of staff and contractors understand the key challenges that students may face, how to recognise warning signs, when and how to act, and the limits of their responsibilities. Failing to offer clear guidance on key considerations such as responsibility, disclosure and indeed appropriate behaviour, can lead staff to fail to act.
In addition, students themselves need similar guidance on these challenges, how to support their fellow students, how to recognise the signals of distress, and a clear understanding of what is appropriate behaviour in much the same way that an organisation would set out its policies on the expectations of the behaviour of its staff.
Our new video-led Safer Universities course explores the challenges that students face, dispels myths and gives clear guidance on the responsibilities of individuals, staff and students, to ensure they can act accordingly and responsibly.
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