Statement on BBC Scotland Disclosure programme

Published: 16 July 2021

University of Glasgow statement on BBC Scotland Disclosure documentary, aired on 12 July 2021, from Dr David Duncan and Professor Jill Morrison

Content Advisory: The BBC Documentary Am I Safe on Campus? discussed account(s) of sexual misconduct and assault of students. Should this have a detrimental impact on your health and wellbeing support is available through the internal and external support and resources below.

University of Glasgow Statement on BBC Scotland Disclosure Programme

We were distressed to hear the views of University of Glasgow students interviewed as part of the BBC Scotland Disclosure documentary, aired on Monday 12 July. 

It is clear that those interviewed did not feel properly supported through the process of bringing forward allegations of sexual harassment, nor did they feel they had been kept appropriately informed of developments.

Preventing sexual harassment of all kinds and supporting the survivors of gender-based violence (GBV) is a top priority for the University. 

Our approach covers three main areas: education and awareness-raising, to ensure that all members of the University community understand what is acceptable conduct and what is not; support for individuals – including provision of easy-to-use reporting mechanisms, person-centred advice and counselling; and robust investigatory and disciplinary procedures.  

We work collaboratively with the Students' Representative Council (SRC) and other student bodies, and draw on external professional expertise where necessary.

We are already working on a number of improvements to our provision for tackling GBV.  We will now reflect on all aspects of the case covered by the documentary and consider what further changes we can make in each of these three areas. 

In the meantime, we would like to offer our sincere apologies to anyone who has had a poor experience of University procedures and support – please be assured that we are committed to learning what lessons we can and then implementing them as quickly as possible.

Dr David Duncan, Chief Operating Officer & University Secretary, and Professor Jill Morrison, Vice Principal and Clerk of Senate & Gender Equality Champion


If you have been affected by anything discussed in either the BBC Disclosure programme or this statement, please reach out to us for support.

INTERNAL SUPPORT & RESOURCES:

We understand the importance of the university providing support to any member of our community who has been affected by sexual violence or assault. More information can be found on the Sexual Violence Support pages.

Report and Support Online Tool: You can submit a report on sexual misconduct or sexual harassment, if you are a University of Glasgow student, or on behalf of a University of Glasgow student, with the option to remain anonymous. Any student who comes forward is offered personal support, information and guidance.  

SafeZone App was launched by the University and is regularly monitored 24 hours a day by our Security Team. This app helps to ensure the safety and security of our students - whether it be on campus, at halls or anywhere in between. 

Student Representative Council: The University of Glasgow works closely with the Student Representative Council who offer independent support and advice. The SRC Advice Centre offers free, confidential and professional advice on a range of subjects including harassment or bullying.  

Telephone: 0141 330 5360
Website: www.glasgowstudent.net/advice/the-advice-centre/
Email: advice@src.gla.ac.uk

Rape Crisis Scotland provides crisis support for anyone in Scotland affected by sexual violence at any time in their lives. The Rape Crisis Scotland National Helpline offers free and confidential support and information by phone or email. The helpline can also put you in touch with local rape crisis centres or other services if you need longer-term support.

Freephone: 08088 01 03 02 (deaf and hard of hearing: +44 (0) 141 353 3091), available all week 1800 – 2400
Email: support@rapecrisisscotland.org.uk

Other Support & Resources

You can find additional information on other Sexual Violence Support available on the University’s Safety, health & wellbeing pages

 

First published: 16 July 2021

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