What is gender-based violence?
Gender-based violence is an issue that our universities and colleges are concerned about. Research suggests that as many as 1 in 4 female students experience unwanted sexual behaviour during their studies. Colleges and universities are working to prevent gender based violence and we want to encourage people to make disclosures and ensure they receive the support they want.
By ‘gender-based violence’ we mean a spectrum of behaviour that starts with objectification and unwanted comments and includes but is not limited to; intimidation, stalking, harassment, domestic abuse, physical, financial and emotional abuse, sexual assault, rape and murder. The term also includes commercial sexual exploitation and so called 'honour-based' violence, including female genital mutilation, forced marriages and 'honour' crimes.
Scotland uses the term gender-based violence because women and girls are much more likely to experience it as a result of continued inequality in our society. However, the term is not exclusive of other people. Everyone can be affected; some groups face higher barriers to safety and support (e.g. disabled students, LGBTQIA+ students and international students).
We will always use your words for what happened. You do not have to label your experience to get support.