Leeds University Union have announced the next phase of the ‘We’ve Got Your Back’ campaign, in a vow to continue the fight against sexual harassment and sexual violence on campus and in the city.

The campaign aims to focus specifically on the issue of consent, and will include workshops to stress the importance of seeking consent and giving people the confidence to speak out.

Freshers’ Week has been acknowledged as a time when students may feel particularly vulnerable in new social situations, and Union members believe that consent classes will aid in making students feel safer and more supported.

Representatives from local bars, local charities, the University of Leeds and the Students’ Union, have all signed a pledge to commit to make a stand against all forms of unwanted sexual attention.

This follows the implementation of a policy in 2010 mandating a zero tolerance approach to sexual harassment, and the formation of a clear reporting process for incidents as well as a thorough training programme for all bar staff in the Union venues.

Gemma Turner, Leeds University Union’s Equality and Diversity Officer, said: ‘I’m really proud of what we’ve achieved so far over the last two years.

‘I know safety is a huge concern for students especially when out in the city. It is time to step it up a gear, working with more venues and improving training – focused on making sure all students are able to seek consent or report and incident.’

Jonny Chard