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Encampment in front of Pontio

Â鶹´«Ã½¸ßÇå°æ has an ethical and sustainable Investments Policy. The University does not choose individual investments itself but has a framework that our investment managers use to create our portfolio.Ìý

Our policy stipulates that we expect a high level of environmental, sustainability and governance (ESG) measures to be in place for any potential investment. The University also screens out potential investments in weapons, armaments, alcohol, gambling, tobacco, adult entertainment and fossil fuel companies.

Â鶹´«Ã½¸ßÇå°æ is currently reviewingÌýthisÌýInvestment Policy, with initial discussions having already taken place at theÌýInvestment Committee of whichÌýthe President of the Â鶹´«Ã½¸ßÇå°æ Students' UnionÌýis a member. The University expects that the policy review will be completed over the summer, and that the revisedÌýInvestment PolicyÌýwill be used as a framework by its investment managers to guide future decisions.

Encampment

On Wednesday, 8 May, an encampment was erected on the lawn in front of Pontio; this encompasses a group of people demonstrating against the conflict in Israel and Gaza mirroring similar protests at universities in the UK and the US.Ìý

Free speech and respect on campus Ìý

Universities provide a place and opportunity for debate, and as a community of students and staff, we recognise that disagreement can occur as individuals may hold differing views.Ìý

Protecting free speech within legal boundaries is paramount; however, it is also essential that people treat one another with respect at all times.ÌýÌý

How we communicate respectfullyÌý

We support our student community by providing a platform for them to protest and share their views peacefully. We do this by collaborating closely with our elected Students' Union representatives to ensure we have the right measures in place to protect our students, staff, and wider community while preserving free speech.ÌýÌý

Additionally, we unequivocally condemn racism, antisemitism, Islamophobia, discrimination, harassment, abuse, or criminal behaviour, as these have no place in our community.Ìý

To those participating or involved in the protestÌýÌý

To those involved in or joining the protest, it's important to remember that the University must continue with day-to-day operations to ensure our students and the wider community feel safe and able to carry on with their activities.Ìý

We also ask that you remain mindful towards our local community, recognising the area as a public thoroughfare.ÌýÌý

Finally, prioritise your safety and well-being; although our campus is monitored, it remains situated in an accessible area open to the general public.ÌýÌý

While we acknowledge your right to protest, we encourage the use of legitimate channels to express your views effectively.Ìý

How to raise concerns Ìý

If you or someone you know has encountered or observed any instance of discrimination or has any safeguarding concern, we strongly encourage students to reach out to Â鶹´«Ã½¸ßÇå°æ's Student Support and Wellbeing Team or the Student Union.ÌýÌý

If staff experience any form of violence, harassment or hate crime, including sexual and racist, we encourage you to let us know (details below).Ìý

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ÌýIn conclusion Ìý

While we fully acknowledge the right of students to protest lawfully, however, establishing a camp raises potential health and safety issues. Such actions also may pose risks of disruption to students, staff and our broader community and any actions need to remain within authorised and lawful use of University's grounds.ÌýÌý

Moreover, we recognise this is a crucial time of year for many students undertaking various exams and assessments.ÌýÌý

We are committed to maintaining normal operations to the best of our ability. We urge protestors to consider the impact of their actions accordingly. Ensuring the safety and wellbeing of everyone on our campus remains our top priority.Ìý