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This statement responds to recent coverage and commentary on social media and in the national press concerning a speaker session held on campus, which featured a representative from the group Justice for Innocent Men Scotland (JIMS). It is important for me to be clear from the outset that the views expressed by JIMS do not reflect those of Abertay University and that this speaker was not approved by senior management. We are reviewing our external speaker approval processes as a result, and I want to also directly address this matter with you, recognising that it has caused concern for students and staff and also in the wider community. An investigation into the issues raised on this matter has already begun.
While we will always champion free speech within the law, academic freedom and the right of any group to respectfully campaign for change, it is clear that the language, content and general approach publicly promoted by members of JIMS is not in alignment with our strategic values statement to be both inclusive and caring, or our commitment to fostering an environment where disclosures of gender-based violence can be freely reported. The University is fully committed to safeguarding our staff and students and to supporting anyone affected by gender-based violence. This is backed up by our engagement in local and national initiatives such as the Equally Safe in Higher Education toolkit and 16 Days of Activism Against GBV, in addition to our online Tell Us reporting site where anonymous disclosures can be made.
To be clear, anyone who has experienced rape or sexual abuse must be able to speak out without fear of harassment, and we do not condone any actions which may prevent that.
We live in a highly polarised time, where context and nuance are crucial to understanding controversial issues. It is therefore worth clarifying that the JIMS speaker session was linked to a criminology module where students were required to critically explore criminal justice systems. It is my firm belief that all students must be given appropriate opportunities to engage with a range of challenging or controversial views and that a core function of any university must be to equip students with the academic and critical thinking skillsets required to confront difficult issues and drive positive social change. Freedom of speech within the law is of course a right, but with that comes a responsibility for accuracy and respect.
I’m hugely proud of the safe, welcoming and inclusive environment that Abertay is renowned for, and I hope that this message goes some way to clarifying the University’s position on this matter.
Professor Liz Bacon
Principal and Vice-Chancellor
We are issuing a joint message of support to staff and students to ensure that those in the Abertay community who are affected by the current situation related to JIMS know where to go for support and find someone to talk to.
Gender-based violence has a devastating impact and is something that can affect anyone, whether that’s a survivor with lived experience, a family member, a friend, or a colleague. We are fortunate to have a strong and collaborative support network available through our services here on campus, through Abertay Students’ Association and through our city partners. We would encourage anyone who needs help to get in touch to discuss their concerns.
The University and Abertay Students’ Association are committed to rebuilding trust in our community and will commit to working together to highlight and respond to GBV. The information below provides a list of routes to support and how to make contact with the various groups and organisations involved in supporting staff and students.
We know that the Abertay community is a supportive, welcoming and resilient one, so please don’t be afraid to make contact if you feel you need to.
Carla, Eilidh and James
Support information
Student support, counselling and mental health enquiries: advisory@abertay.ac.uk
To speak to Abertay Students’ Association: hello@abertaysa.com
To make an anonymous report online: https://tellus.abertay.ac.uk/
To contact the Support Enquiry Zone for general enquiries: sez@abertay.ac.uk or call 01382 308 833 during office hours.
For out of hours mental health support: NHS24 (call 111), Breathingspace advice line on 0800 83 85 87, Saneline advice line on 0300 304 7000, or text Crisisline on 85258.
The Samaritans provide a 24/7, 365 day a year telephone service. Their free phone number is 116 123.
Women’s Rape and Sexual Abuse Centre (WRASAC) is available Monday to Friday, 10am to 3pm on 01382 201 291.
Dundee Women’s Aid support lines is available Monday to Friday, 9.30am to 12:30pm & 1.30pm to 4.30pm on 01382 207099.