Recent public order incidents: support for staff and students

The public order incidents that we have witnessed since the tragic events in Southport last week have been both shocking and appalling. As the Prime Minister said, “this was not a protest, it was organised, violent thuggery and it has no place on our streets or online”. Our thoughts are with all those affected, and we strongly condemn the actions of a minority who have caused injury, damage and fear.

That minority is not reflective of the welcoming and diverse place that Manchester provides. This is a great global city, where more than 200 languages are spoken and home to around 100,000 students – the majority of who choose to stay in the city following graduation. Its people are its strength.

As a University we are committed to being intentionally inclusive, creating a culture of belonging, supporting our diverse staff and student community to thrive and achieve their full potential. We expect everyone to treat others with dignity and respect.

It is important to ensure that our campus environment is safe, supportive and inclusive for everyone. There is no place for racism, antisemitism, islamophobia, discrimination, or abuse.   

Reporting

Our Safe Zone app can also be downloaded via app stores and allows you to discreetly call for emergency help whilst on campus. Please remember in an emergency to call 999.  We encourage that any criminal matters are reported promptly to the police and that you use our Report and Support line to report incidents should you experience or witness anything on this or any other matter relating to dignity and respect.  

Staff support

We know that some colleagues will be concerned, and some may be directly impacted, by the public order incidents that have been happening around the country, including in Greater Manchester.  If you feel these are impacting your ability to work, please speak to your line manager in the first instance who will explain the options and support available.

You can also contact our Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) which provides counselling, telephone advice, as well as wellbeing content and support by calling: 0800 169 1920 or via the TELUS Health website. 

Student support

We appreciate some of you may feel concerned about the events and worried about your own safety, particularly if you are living or working in an area which has been directly impacted by disorder. We also understand the climate created by the disorder can impact those living away from the directly affected areas.

The University provides a range of individual support and advice services:

Student Welfare Services

The University’s Student Welfare team makes sure students get the right support, guidance, and practical advice when they need it. You can email them at [email protected].

Chaplaincy

Our chaplains provide support to staff and students of faith but also of no faith and are available for you to speak with on campus or remotely.  You can email the team at [email protected].

The University’s Student Hub

The Student Hub is available from 09:00 to 16:30, Monday to Friday in the Business School building or via phone on 0161 247 1000 from 10:00 to 16:00.

24/7 Student Support Service

Our student support service, in partnership with Spectrum.Life, is available to all students every day of the year.

The service is available 24/7/365 days of the year and has a free UK helpline as well as hours of online content available through the web portal or app. 

Freephone (UK): 0808 238 9888, WhatsApp: Text ‘Hi’: 07418 360 780, International: 00353 1 518 0277

The Students’ Union Advice Centre

Call 0161 247 6533 to book telephone, Microsoft Teams or in person advice. You can also email the team [email protected].

Placement students

If you feel your safety is compromised, or you have any concerns about attending your placement, please speak to your Placement Lead/Personal Tutor to understand your options.