TW: S*xual Assualt/R*pe

This petition seeks to urge the implementation of a Glasgow and Clyde R*pe Crisis Support Worker on Campus. 

Glasgow University Charity Fashion Show (GUCFS) calls upon students and staff to urge the University to implement a Glasgow and Clyde R*pe Crisis (GCRC) support worker on campus. GCRC's services have been repeatedly refused by the University despite numerous offers of their support. This is despite the system existing successfully at Strathclyde University. Current reporting and support services at Glasgow University fail survivors and perpetuate a culture of not speaking up. The question remains why the University of Glasgow will not make use of this support? 

Our communication with Glasgow University has evidenced a desire to change in light of the recent Morag Ross KC report. However, student distrust and a history of mismanagement of survivors allegations necessitates the use of a trained outside organisation such as Glasgow and Clyde Rape Crisis. 

There is a clear need for Glasgow and Clyde Rape Crisis’ services on campus.  In recent years there has been an alarming number of high-profile issues, at, and around Glasgow University regarding gender-based violence or harassment. A further pressing concern is the mismanagement of these complaints by the university. The BBC disclosure documentary on former Glasgow University Sports Association (GUSA) President Paddy Everingham, the inquiry into Professor John Paul Leach and the allegations surrounding Professor Ian Shaw are all incidents within just four years of an undergraduate degree which have made major press. Distressingly, these represent but a few of many more incidents of reported violence and  student/staff dissatisfaction with the reporting process.  Notably, this is an issue pervasive both among staff and student culture. The university has recognised behaviour which “fell short of professional expectations'' and tried to change and improve its reporting standards. However, the recent report on gendered violence commissioned by the university has, amongst other things, again highlighted a lack of trust in the university to deal with sexual and gendered violence. The need for change is unequivocal.  

Glasgow and Clyde R*pe Crisis (GCRC) are an amazing organisation which provides vital support to female survivors of sexual violence and who campaign and educate to work towards societal change around male-led violence against women.  Glasgow University has repeatedly refused their offer of a support service since discussions began with the SRC in Feb 2021. Reports to GCRC and student consensus suggests a dissatisfaction with the existing reporting system and a mistrust in the university. Yet the university continues with its existing systems.  Notably, a comparable service exists at Strathclyde University:  an on-campus support service offered 4 days a week and continual training to staff and student unions. Glasgow University's current system is not fit for purpose and we are left to question why GCRC's support has not been accepted, despite their desire to improve the situation.

Join GUCFS in urging Glasgow University to support survivors with a system fit for purpose and to accept R*pe Crisis' offer of support.