Detectives from Essex Police’s Public Protection Unit have taken proactive steps to train University of Essex students and staff on sexual offences. This initiative focused on Residence Life teams in Colchester and Southend, aiming to improve understanding of sexual offences and related issues.
The Residence Life team, part of the University’s Student Wellbeing and Inclusivity Service, includes Residents’ Assistants who live in university accommodation. These students offer welfare support and help build community spirit. During this term, they used the training received from Essex Police to conduct introductory sessions on consent, harassment, and hate crime for their fellow students. Additionally, they introduced the online platform Report and Support, which allows students to confidentially report incidents and access help.
Essex Police extended their training efforts to university security staff as well. Security guards were instructed on how to respond appropriately when someone reports a sexual offence, how to engage sensitively with victims, and how to relay important information to the police.
Detective Inspector Craig Wiggins commented, “It’s really important young people are armed with information about issues like consent so we can all keep each other safe. The students we’ve trained can now spread that knowledge to peers, making a real impact.”
Detective Inspector Yoni Adler added, “Better equipping security staff means offenders are more likely to face justice. This partnership shows the University of Essex’s commitment to student safety.”
Registrar Bryn Morris expressed gratitude, stating, “We’re grateful for Essex Police’s support. Working together helps keep our community safe and ensures our staff have up-to-date advice and resources.”
Originally published by UKNIP.
