Uncovering the harsh reality: Sexual Violence in University
Sexual assault is a global issue that crosses borders, cultures, and organisations. In the context of higher education, universities in the United Kingdom, which are frequently seen as beacons of study and enlightenment, have been presented with troubling data about sexual abuse. This anxiety not only compromises students’ safety and well-being, but it also questions the core concepts of equality and respect in academic institutions. There has been a lot of study and research into the issue of sexual violence, specifically at university but the main question we ask is… is it enough? For example, the Revolt Sexual Assault Survey (2018) found that around 62% out of a 4,500 sample of students and recent graduates have experienced sexual violence while at University- however, only 6% of victims reported it. Disclosure rates are extremely low, NUS (2019) found that only 14% reported to anyone. The number of reported cases are vast as is, but what about those that go unnoticed?
As part of my investigation, I spoke to some students. One of them shared their story relating to the security of student halls in Leicester, unfortunately one night they were sexually harassed by a stranger outside of their accommodation gate and the security guards simply turned and ignored it which definitely raises the question of is our own homes even safe?
Although for many survivors, finding help and support at any stage can seem daunting and almost impossible, but it is crucial for you to know that there are several services who strive to provide support such as The New Futures Project who are an overall support chain for women in Leicester or The Mandala Project who provide practical support to DMU students who have experienced sexual violence, domestic abuse or any form of sexual harassment.
Our main concern is being able to provide a safe space and ensure survivors get the support they need in order to begin the road to recovery, by highlighting these organisations we can lay the groundwork for change in the way that survivors deal with the situation, hopefully bringing more cases to light.
References:
- Tutchell, Eva, and John Edmonds. UNSAFE SPACES: Ending Sexual Abuse in Universities. 2020.
- Revolt. “Research – Revolt Sexual Assault.” Revolt Sexual Assault, 2018, revoltsexualassault.com/research/.
- “News & Blog.” The New Futures Project, 26 Feb. 2023, new-futures.org.uk/news-blog/. Accessed 14 Feb. 2024.
- “The Mandala Project.” Www.dmu.ac.uk, www.dmu.ac.uk/current-students/student-support/wellbeing-disability/mandala-project/index.aspx.
– Written by Angelina, Campaigns Volunteer at Quetzal
