University of Exeter Students’ Guild: Gender Safety Research.
Brief:
The University of Exeter and the Students’ Guild had seen an increase in pressure from students about gender safety initiatives following media coverage of spiking in Exeter, and concerns over student night safety both off and on campus.
As a result of these concerns, the Guild commissioned a research project which was funded and approved by the Provost Commission of the University and Students’ Guild Trustee Board. The aim of the research project was to understand student opinion and concerns, review local and national initiatives, identify gaps in current provision in Exeter and identify best-practice models that could be used to inform the development of new safety initiatives.
The project included:
- Extensive research across the student community including a web survey and gender-based focus groups comprising of female, male and LGBTQ+ students.
- Meetings with the University and Guild key stakeholders, including: the Gender Safety Group, SWaN (Safety of Women at Night,) Wellbeing, Estates, Guild Insight, Advice and Communications teams. It also involved local and national groups such as Devon Rape Crisis and the Street Pastors.
- Comprehensive desktop research and assessment of all night and gender safety initiatives in the UK.
- Make recommendations for a “fit for purpose” package of safety initiatives for Exeter students, including advising on communication and raising awareness of the initiatives etc.
Results:
“Nina’s response to our brief was excellent and exactly what we needed. Combined with her research credentials, in-depth knowledge of student culture, her empathy to the subject and professionalism, we knew she would be the perfect consultant to handle this sensitive subject. We were right, Nina’s approach was professional and exemplary throughout; and the resulting research, report and recommendations were of the absolute highest quality. Nina worked brilliantly alongside the Guild Insight team and joining University meetings where she presented her findings throughout the project, making the process seamless from start to finish.
As a result of Nina’s work, we have been able to put together a package of night safety initiatives for Exeter students, which we can deliver within our existing resource. The report also helped inform the University of Exeter’s “Safer Streets Fund” and consequently gain substantial government funding, enabling us to deliver the recommended initiatives and other work Nina recommended such as safe spaces in town and resident campaigns, improving the awareness and confidence level of Exeter students around the provision.
A sensitive project, brilliantly executed with empathy, sensitivity and understanding, the results of this project will be far reaching for both Exeter students, and the wider Exeter community. I would highly recommend Nina for all research projects.”
Alison Chambers, CEO.