Policies and Procedures

Speakers and Events

The University has a Policy on Speakers and Events which is designed to ensure that the University is:

• protecting freedom of speech on campus whilst at the same time
• ensuring compliance with all of its statutory obligations (including but not limited to the Prevent duty).

The policy applies to all events which are not part of the University’s core academic or administrative business.

The University recognizes the fundamental importance of freedom of thought and expression, and does not seek to restrict this fundamental freedom through this policy.

University members who are organising an event will be asked to complete a short risk assessment when booking a University or EUSA space. The purpose of this risk assessment is to establish whether an event/an external speaker at an event will be compliant with the University’s broad, statutory (legal) responsibilities. It is not to discourage the discussion of controversial or difficult topics at the University.

In 2015/16, since the introduction of the policy, the University has approved events on topics including abortion; disability and disfigurement; the Iranian nuclear deal; Syria; Sharia law; and opposing the Prevent duty.

The Policy on Speakers and Events should be read in conjunction with the University’s statement on freedom of expression.

The University also has protest guidelines for staff and students:

Staff and student protest guidelines

Research ethics

The University is amending its research ethics policies to ensure that students and staff who are engaged in research into potentially sensitive topics (such as extremism) are protected from the risks associated with accessing sensitive material online.

Computing Regulations

The University’s Computing Regulations have been amended to highlight the University’s obligations under the Counter-Terrorism and Security Act (2015). No restrictions to IT access have been introduced as a result of these obligations, but the Regulations do remind all users that accessing potentially sensitive material online carries risks.

Prayer facilities

The University has approved a set of procedures for the use of prayer and other multi-faith facilities on campus.