A Glasgow university has been recognised for its efforts tacking gender-based violence (GBV) among students on campus.
The University of Strathclyde has been awarded the EmilyTest GBV Charter, set up by Fiona Drouet after her daughter, Emily, took her own life in 2016 following a campaign of abuse and violence by a fellow student.
The Charter is made up of five principles with over 40 minimum standards which institutions must meet in order to pass– including having a GBV policy, a reporting tool and a clearly defined duty of care.
The Charter provides a ‘toolbox’ alongside guided coaching for Universities and Colleges to effectively prevent, intervene and respond to GBV in line with best practice, while cementing an ‘outwards’ celebration of progress.
EmilyTest supports institutions through one-to-one coaching, providing dedicated staff support, resources and opportunities to share good practice with the sector to enable them to implement this framework.
Institutions gain the Charter by presenting evidence of their work to an independent panel of experts.
Professor Sir Jim McDonald, Principal & Vice-Chancellor of Strathclyde, said: “As a socially progressive University, we believe the higher education sector has an essential role to play in helping to tackle gender-based violence wherever it may occur, through awareness raising, teaching and research, and by ensuring our campuses are safe. This is exemplified in our Safe360° initiative and our Strathclyde Community Commitment.
“No one should have to endure GBV – something which affects girls and women in particular – and we are determined to play our part in driving the change that is needed in society more generally, and by making our campus as safe as possible.”
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Eva Curran, President of Strath Union, said: “I hope students see this as a clear reflection of our commitment to ensuring women feel safe on our campus. This milestone represents our ongoing fight against gender-based violence and our dedication to building a supportive and respectful environment for all students.
“The EmilyTest Charter not only highlights the progress we've made but also serves as a pledge to continue this crucial work, with safety and equality at the heart of our community. It's a proud day to be a Strathclyder!"
Fiona Drouet, Founder and CEO of Emily Test, said: “As a pilot institution for the GBV Charter, Strathclyde has demonstrated a strong commitment to driving much-needed change, not only within their university but across the higher education sector as a whole.
“Achieving the Charter is no small feat, and Strathclyde’s thorough submission of their work in GBV prevention, intervention, and support to our independent panel reflects their commitment to external assessment and confidence in their efforts.
“We very much look forward to continuing our work together in ensuring all students are able to live, work and study free from the harms and threat of GBV.”
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