Ongoing Public Demonstrations
This webpage has been put together to provide information on Bristol SU's response to the recent public demonstrations outside Senate House, and wider protests in the city.
SU Statement
In recent weeks there have been, and may continue to be, external organisations and individuals protesting, campaigning and engaging in debate-style conversations outside of university buildings and across the wider city.
We stand in solidarity with the students who have been affected by the incidents that have happened on campus on Monday 14 September, Monday 5 October, and Friday 9 October at College Green. We know that this might have caused distress to our students, especially to our international, students of colour, trans students, and other marginalised communities.
We would like to make it clear that their presence is not a sign of any form of endorsement. The pavement outside Senate House is not the University's property and therefore, the University and Students' Union unfortunately have no ability to prevent any external organisations in protesting or engaging students and the wider public in these areas.
The safety and wellbeing of students is our number one priority. We encourage any student affected by these events to seek support. We are raising the concerns from students with the University, and working with them to understand what appropriate support and action can be taken going forward.
We understand some students may want to challenge the views and opinions of the external organisations apparent. While we understand the importance and the right for protest and free speech, we encourage you to prioritise your safety and wellbeing. These organisations often thrive from open opposition and use it to promote their own ideas and values, as well as for producing online content.
We are deeply committed to equality, diversity and inclusion. We will never support discrimination, harassment, or behaviour that makes students feel unwelcomed on campus.
Support Available for Students
University Support
You can get direct support from the Student Wellbeing Services. There is also out-of-hours support available via TalkCampus.
The Multifaith Chaplaincy is available for faith-based or spiritual support.
If you're concerned about your safety, you can contact Security Services or the University Police Officer if you need advice.
Support in the City and Wider Community
SARI (Stand Against Racism and Inequality) Charity provides help to victims of hate crime.
Black South West Network are a racial justic organisation based in Bristol.
Nilaari Agency are Bristol based and provide mental health assistance to adults from racialised communities.
Green and Black Cross are an independent project, and have a number of resources on knowing your rights when protesting.
Making a Report
You can report unacceptable behaviour to the University, and are able to do this anonymously.
You can also report hate crime directly to the police.
What have we been doing to support you?
We've co-signed a joint statement with the University and Trade Unions which has been sent to all staff and students.
We've raised concerns about student safety directly to the University and are continuing to discuss how the impact on students can be minimised.
We're exploring other opportunities for students to be able to raise their concerns in a safe and open space.
