Dear Students,

I invite you to read the University’s new Personal Relationships Policy, which applies to all members of the University community and sets out the University’s expectations and requirements regarding close personal relationships, writes Mhairi Taylor, Equality and Diversity Manager.

The policy has been developed by the Equality and Diversity Unit and Senate, with detailed consultation across the University, including with the Students’ Representative Council.

We do not want to manage people’s relationships, but rather ensure we execute our duty of care effectively to all those within our community.

Can I ask that you take time to familiarise yourself with the policy, which is available on the Equality and Diversity Unit and Senate Office web pages and from the link above.

Please note that where the relationship is between a staff member and a student, the fundamental responsibility for reporting any relationship covered by the policy lies with the staff member; these may be intimate, close personal or familial relationships. In line with the Privacy Notice, the nature of these relationships is not recorded. A range of  ‘Frequently Asked Questions’ has been developed and are also available on the website.

If you believe you, or a fellow student, are experiencing coercive, controlling or predatory behaviour, we urge you to seek advice from your relevant Advisor of Studies/ PGT/R Convenor or the SRC Advice Centre. Further information and resources are also available on the Sexual Assault support webpage.

If you require further information on the policy or its impact, please contact me on mhairi.taylor@glasgow.ac.uk.


First published: 9 October 2018