We have all been horrified by the recent news story surrounding sexual assault allegations at Cornell University in the USA. This case is a stark reminder that sexual violence remains a significant issue within higher education and highlights the importance of institutions creating cultures where sexual harassment and abuse are actively prevented.  

In England, the 2025 Office for Students survey revealed that 25% of final year students have experienced sexual harassment since they started their studies. Over half of these students who reported an incident of sexual harassment said that the incident had taken place in a university or college setting.  

Together, this recent case and survey highlight the scale of sexual harassment that takes place within higher education and the critical role universities play in promoting a culture where abuse is recognised, challenged and addressed effectively. Universities should be safe spaces where students are able to learn, build confidence and develop life skills. Time in university is often the first time a young person has moved away from home and is living independently. It is therefore vital that universities create environments where students feel safe and supported, enabling them to fully engage in their studies and make the most of their university experience. 

How can Solace help?  

Solace can play a role in supporting universities to understand the realities of sexual violence, common barriers to disclosure, and how to respond to disclosures safely and sensitively. We offer bespoke training programmes which cover topics such as understanding domestic abuse and coercive control, building a culture of consent and trauma-informed practice for higher education.

By investing in specialist training for staff and students, universities can equip staff with the knowledge needed to support students effectively, strengthen students’ ability to support their peers and help create a campus culture where sexual harassment and violence are less likely to occur.  

By working together, we can create safer university spaces, strengthen support for survivors, and help prevent sexual harassment and violence.  

“Our trainer was very engaging, knowledgeable and encouraged everyone to participate. It was a new way for us to think about consent on campus”.  – Training participant

Find out more about our specialist trainings for university staff and students, as well as our interactive quiz for university students to recognise red flags in relationships:

Source: Office for Students Sexual Misconduct Survey 2025  OfS publishes new data on the scale of sexual misconduct in English higher education – Office for Students