Content Warning
The following content includes sensitive topics around sexual harassment & violence, abuse and rape. If you feel that completing this training would be detrimental to your wellbeing, you can complete this form to opt-out of taking part and you will be marked as completing the course on e-Activities. If reading this material has caused you distress, you can contact England and Wales Rape Crisis (0808 802 9999).
The role of a student leader and why we are talking about consent
As a committee member of a club, society or project (CSP) committee, you have an important role to play in creating a positive, safe and inclusive space for students in the Union, members of your club and public attendees at your events. Being in a position of leadership gives you power and responsibility, as your members will look up to you and follow your example. At Imperial College Union, we aim to create a positive culture of consent for all Imperial students from all backgrounds – as such, it is up to all of us, particularly those of us in positions of leadership, to acquire a strong understanding of consent, lead by example, challenge poor behaviours and report any issues.
What is inappropriate behaviour
Engaging in a sexual act without the person’s consent is a criminal offence and is considered sexual assault or rape. In an everyday context, consent involves the communication of our personal boundaries and the decision of our peers to respect them.
In order to build a positive culture around consent, we need to acknowledge the impact that our actions can have on those around us. It is also on us as student leaders, if comfortable to call out and report inappropriate behaviour safely. Below is a non-exhaustive list of examples and definitions of non-consensual behaviour and sexual violence to look out for:
Other issues to be aware of:
Although the following issues are not legal offences in the UK, it is important to be aware of them and of your own impact as a committee member on the spaces that you help create. The following issues describe behaviours that go against the College’s Values8 – in certain cases, they may also result in disciplinary action from the Union or the College.
Reporting & Supporting
If you feel comfortable to, we ask that our committee members take on the role of being an active bystander within your committee, CSP and community. You can find out how to be an active bystander by following our guidance in the committee support hub training section12.
Whether you have chosen to be an active bystander or not, you always have the responsibility as a committee member to report the issues that you have noticed within you CSP. There are a number of ways you can do this:
- You can use the Report and Support Tool
- You can contact a Sexual Violence Liaison Officer or Harassment Support Contact
- Contact the the Union or Activities Manager by emailing activities@imperial.ac.uk
If someone needs support after being a victim of any of the above inappropriate behaviour, you can direct to the below for support: