If you have witnessed or experienced sexual violence or harassment, either historically or while at Herts, we are here to support you.
The University of Hertfordshire recognises that sexual violence and harassment can be experienced by any individual, regardless of their identity, and we are committed to a zero-tolerance approach to any incidents of sexual misconduct and violence.
⚠️ Click or tap here if you need to access emergency help for sexual violence ⚠️
- What is Consent?
- How to report incidents and get support for sexual violence
- If you have been the victim of historic violence or abuse
- University policy regarding sexual violence and harassment
What is Consent?
Consent is the agreement by choice where the individual has both the freedom and capacity to make that choice. Consent cannot be assumed based on a previous sexual experience or previously given consent, or from the absence of complaint, and each new sexual act requires a re-confirmation of consent as the foundation of a healthy and respectful sexual relationship. Consent may be withdrawn at any time before or during a sexual act.
Consent to sexual activity may be given to one sort of sexual activity but not another, e.g.to vaginal but not anal sex or penetration with conditions, such as wearing a condom.
Consent can be withdrawn at any time during sexual activity and each time activity occurs. Someone consents to vaginal, anal or oral penetration only if they agree by choice to that penetration and they have the freedom and capacity to make that choice.
Further information about consent can be found here: Rape Crisis England & Wales - Sexual consent.
If you think you have been the target of sexual misconduct, assault or harassment, it may be hard to know what to do or how to feel. What happened was not your fault. What you do next is your choice.
How to report incidents and get support for sexual violence
- How our Harassment, Domestic and Sexual Misconduct Service can support you
- You can directly report incidents using our Speak Up system
- Other sources of support if you have been a victim of sexual violence
If you have been the victim of historic sexual violence or abuse
If you have experienced sexual violence or abuse in the past (before University or in your childhood) you can email Student Wellbeing to make an appointment to speak to the University’s Student Support Advisor (EDI and Sexual Violence), who will be able to provide support and signpost to local services.
If you are reporting this experience using Speak Up, you can ask to be contacted directly by one of these members during the reporting process.
You can also request mental health support or counselling support from Student Wellbeing.
You may want to consider reporting this directly to the Police on their non-emergency number 101.
Independent help and support is available through these external services: