Sexual harassment: working to keep you safe this term

As pandemic restrictions begin to ease and more opportunities for socialising open up across the city, we’re collectively sending a clear message that sexual harassment and violence are never acceptable. Please continue to remain vigilant when you're out around Oxford.

Here are some of the ways we’re working to support you and help keep you safe:

• Sexual Harassment and Violence Support Service: a safe and independent place for you to be heard. All specialist advisors at the service are trained to support you at your pace, free of charge and in confidence. 
• Safe Lodge Scheme – colleges offering sanctuary to any student feeling unsafe at any time - look out for green circle stickers displayed in lodge windows. Once safe, your home college will be informed to arrange safe return. 
• Additional CCTV by Security Services
• Consent Matters: online consent training for all students offering initial training helping to build understanding of consent, respect, boundaries and positive intervention. 
• It Happens Here: Oxford SU’s dedicated anti-sexual violence campaign - read their Society Spotlight to learn more. 
• Tackling sexual violence at Oxford: an online webinar by Oxford SU on Friday 28 May, 4-5pm
• Project Vigilant: a police initiate targeting predatory behaviour to prevent sexual offences taking place.
• OUR SPACE survey: collating experiences and perspectives of sexual harassment and violence at the University to improve services.

Other support services include:

• Ask for Angela: discreet codeword to alert venue staff you’re feeling unsafe
• Hollie Guard app: immediately notify chosen contacts of your location with audio and video evidence
• Victims First: free emotional and practical support to all victims and witnesses of crime in Oxfordshire, Berkshire and Buckinghamshire

Oxford Against Sexual Violence is a joint campaign between the University and Oxford University’s student union, Oxford SU. The campaign focuses on promoting the Sexual Harassment and Violence Support Service and builds on existing activities, including consent and bystander intervention workshops for new students, and a range of welfare and support services provided in colleges and by the central University.