Violence against women

The last week has been a lot to process for everyone who identifies as female. We know that social media may have become an overwhelming place and that the recent events for many have caused anger, frustration about the current discourse around safety, and brought back traumatic past experiences.

AdvicebowerCampaignscommunityEducationFrenchayGlensideTheStudentsUnionunionWellbeing

This week has taken its toll emotionally, mentally and physically for all women. Women don’t feel safe on the streets, BAME women are facing additional racism and trans women are the subject of further discrimination. We are exhausted and we want change.

A new survey from UN Women UK (via a YouGov poll) has revealed almost all young women in the UK have experienced some form of sexual harassment. The survey also exposes a widespread lack of faith in UK authorities' ability and desire to deal with sexual harassment effectively. Of the women surveyed (over 1,000 in total):

97% of those aged 18 to 24 said they had been sexually harassed;
80% of women across all age groups reported experiencing sexual harassment in public;
96% of respondents didn't report incidents; with
45% saying that reporting wouldn't change anything.

It may not be all men, but it is at least 97% of women.

Education and empathy is needed to move forward in a safe and positive way.

What can you do to help? How can you be an ally?

Everyone needs to take action, it isn’t the role of women to resolve, this is for everyone to address.

What can you do? Speak up when you see something that isn’t right!

Start calling out your friends, educate yourself, if someone did something but you never addressed it, address it now, and if you witness any sexual harassment, report it to the police.

The Government has reopened the Violence Against Women and Girls consultation. This aims to collect information from those with lived experience of, or views on, crimes considered as violence against women and girls. It is open to all genders.

We would also like to remind you that this month is Women’s History Month and the theme this year is ‘Choose to Challenge’. A time where we celebrate the incredible achievements of women across the globe, raise awareness against bias and take action for equality. We would like to invite everyone to these events.

Whether you need to take a break from social media or would benefit from talking to someone, The Students’ Union and UWE Bristol has a range of support services. Please see below for support options.

Support services at The Students’ Union and UWE Bristol

UWE Bristol Support and Report – This has a specific section for sexual harassment to seek support, have support in making a report to the police or to UWE

Speak Up

Online counselling

Out of Hours Team

The Students’ Union Advice Centre

24/7 Crisis Textline