Tackling Sexual Violence at Universities An International Perspective

Sexual violence is a problem well beyond universities, however universities are uniquely well placed to contribute to reducing sexual violence, encouraging those affected to come forward and speak about their experiences and actively encourage increased reporting. This book is unique, in that it offers an international perspective on the incidence, reporting and impact of sexual violence at universities. Drawing on evidence from the UK, North America, Australia and Europe, Towl and Walker explore the psychological and structural challenges to reporting sexual violence. They provide a set of policy and practice guidance recommendations that move beyond awareness campaigns to call for systems to be put in place whereby reports of sexual assault are handled promptly, fairly and consistently. They also discuss how universities can strengthen their approach to prevention, promoting safeguarding and the welfare of victims and survivors, and involving victims and survivors in the development and improvement of services. However, fundamental to their approach is keeping decision making with the victim and survivor, and emphasising that their health and recovery is paramount. Tackling Sexual Violence at Universities is an invaluable and ground-breaking resource for students and researchers in forensic psychology and criminology, as well as professionals working in higher education. The authors are donating their royalties in full to Kirklees and Calderdale Rape & Sexual Abuse Centre (KCRASACC), UK, a small registered charity that provides specialist therapy, counselling advocacy and support for survivors of sexual or domestic violence and abuse. Running for nearly 30 years, the centre works with young people and adults over the age of 13.

Foreword Chapter 1: Tackling sexual violence at universities: themes and perspectives. Chapter 2: What do we know about sexual violence? Chapter 3: Tackling sexual violence at universities in the UK. Chapter 4: Sexual violence on US campuses. Chapter 5: Sexual violence at Australian universities. Chapter 6: Canadian universities and sexual violence. Chapter 7: Reflections on responding to sexual violence in European universities. Chapter 8: Tackling sexual violence and misconduct: what do universities in the UK need to do?

Graham J.Towl is Professor of Forensic Psychology at Durham University. He was formerly Chief Psychologist at the Ministry of Justice, UK. Uniquely he is the recipient of the British Psychological Society Award for Distinguished Contributions to Professional Practice and also the award for forensic academic knowledge. In 2003 he was peer-nominated as the most influential forensic psychologist in the UK. He is widely published and, as Pro Vice Chancellor at Durham University, he chaired the sector-leading Sexual Violence Task Force, which has received widespread endorsements. Tammi Walker is Deputy Director of The Centre for Applied Research in Health (CARH) and is a Reader in Forensic Psychology at the University of Huddersfield. She is a Chartered Psychologist, a Fellow of the British Psychological Society and a Registered Fellow with the Higher Education Academy.Tammi has completed work in this profession for over 15 years and hasan advanced level of knowledge inforensic mental health, forensic psychiatry and psychology.