University of Gloucestershire signs national pledge on Non-Disclosure Agreements in Sexual Harassment cases

The University of Gloucestershire has given its support to a campaign aimed at ensuring that students and staff feel confident they will be supported and treated fairly in reporting cases of sexual misconduct and bullying.

The UK Government’s Higher Education Minister, Michelle Donelan, backed by MPs and campaign groups, has written to all universities to ask them to sign a pledge committing to not use Non-Disclosure Agreements to silence people who come forward to raise complaints of sexual harassment, abuse or misconduct, or other forms of harassment and bullying. You can read the full story on the Department for Education website.

Stephen Marston, Vice-Chancellor at the University of Gloucestershire, said: “By signing this pledge, we are sending a clear message that we will support people who raise concerns about sexual misconduct and bullying.

“Sexual violence, misconduct or harassment is never okay and there’s lots of information on our student and staff platforms about the support available and who to contact, including how to report any incidents to our support teams or through our online tool.

“The University is committed to providing a safe and inclusive environment for all of our students and staff, and we would actively encourage them to report their experiences and seek support.  The University has not used, and would not use, non-disclosure requirements in sexual harassment cases.

“People should feel confident in speaking out about concerns and being treated fairly and with compassion. All allegations are taken seriously by the University, considered carefully and acted upon appropriately.”