Advance HE has played a leading role in a Scottish Funding Council (SFC) funded initiative launched today to help universities and colleges across Scotland support staff and students who are experiencing gender-based violence (GBV) and abuse while social distancing measures are in place due to COVID-19.
Dr Nel Whiting, Advance HE Equality Charters Programme Adviser (Scotland), worked in partnership with the charity #EmilyTest, CDN and Universities Scotland to produced new social media materials and refreshed website for the project,
Dr Whiting, said, “For many, home is not a safe and secure place. The COVID-19 outbreak, united with current social distancing and self-isolation requirements, can be particularly challenging for those experiencing gender-based violence (GBV) and abuse. It will have serious impacts on the ability of victims to source safety. It is vital that those in this situation are reassured that they are not alone and that support services are continuing to operate.
“The college and university sector has a role to play in working to support victims/survivors who are either staff or students within their institutions. These assets and refreshed website will help them to send that message.”
The full SFC press release announcing the new support is here.
Advance HE enjoys a close working relationship with SFC. Access for all Scottish colleges and universities to Advance HE’s equality and diversity work is supported by the Scottish Funding Council.
- The refreshed website can be viewed at, https://endgbv.uk/ With thanks to the Enhanced Web Development Service at the University of Strathclyde which designed and hosts the microsite.
- https://www.zerotolerance.org.uk/work-journalists/.