OfS responds to new report on sexual misconduct on campus

“All students are entitled to enjoy a safe and positive experience in higher education. This research, funded by our predecessor HEFCE, shines a light on the issue of sexual misconduct by staff and the serious negative impact that it can have on students’ lives.

“It is important that universities and colleges put transparent measures in place which make it safe and as straightforward as possible to report sexual misconduct by staff, with policies and processes that enable an effective response. If we identify evidence of suspected systemic breaches or weaknesses in how a higher education provider meets its duty of care towards its students, after further investigation we will not hesitate to take action if necessary to protect students’ interests.

“This report is timely and clearly there is more work to be done to both prevent sexual misconduct in higher education and support students who experience it. We welcome the joint advisory group that Universities UK has established to address the recommendations in the report and look forward to its progress in helping to ensure a safe environment for all students.”