A survey published today finds that 20 per cent of students have experienced unwanted sexual behaviour.
The survey by the Office for Students OFS) found That Twelve per cent of students who experienced sexual harassment in the last year made a formal report to their university.
Of those who did make a report: 32 percent said their experience of reporting was good and 43 per cent said it was poor.
Ninety per cent of students who experienced sexual assault or violence in the last year did not report the incident to the police.
Commenting, Susan Lapworth, chief executive at the OfS, said:
‘Students have told us clearly that they want to see more active regulation to tackle harassment and sexual misconduct in higher education. We’ve heard them, and our new regulation will help ensure they are better protected and better able to succeed on their courses.
‘Universities and colleges are increasingly alive to these issues and the serious impact they can have on students, particularly women. Some institutions already ban inappropriate relationships between staff and students – and we expect many more will now follow.
The OfS is asking universities and colleges to publish comprehensive information to explain to students how their institution is preventing harassment and sexual misconduct, how incidents that do happen can be reported, and what students should expect – and how they will be supported – during any subsequent investigation.
Staff and students will receive training, including to improve understanding of what constitutes harassment and sexual misconduct. Universities and colleges will no longer be able to use non-disclosure agreements in cases of harassment or sexual misconduct. Institutions are also being asked to take steps to prevent an abuse of power in personal relationships between staff and students.
The condition is being introduced following extensive consultation and will build on work already being done across the sector to protect students from harm.
