Our response to the investigation results into spiking intention allegations.
The University has released the findings of the external investigation into allegations of the intent to spike and sexually assault students at the start of this academic year.
As your SU Officers we felt it was important to address the situation directly.
Whilst it is reassuring that no evidence was found in the recent independent investigation, it is clear from the depth of emotion felt by current students, alumni and the wider community that what needs to be addressed goes beyond this specific situation. We want and need to see meaningful change in culture, values, reporting systems, and student safety online, on campus and in the community.
As your elected officers, we will be ensuring The SU prioritises these discussions over the coming weeks and months, working with the university to determine what will happen next and how existing initiatives can be strengthened, supported or changed. We will ensure that your voices are represented as part of the joint initiative with the university focused on student culture, safety, inclusion and belonging.
To support us in the early stages of this work, we are seeking your initial input through an online form on how we should move forward. Please tell us what you think the change should look like, to enable us to understand priority actions and areas for review.
We want to thank those of you who supported the investigation and who have shared or expressed wider concerns about culture.
SU Officers: Angus, Emily, Tash, Mercy, Nic and Helen.