Bristol and Bath universities mark Sexual Violence Awareness Week

Sexual Violence Awareness Week runs 5-11 February

Universities in the West have pledged to collectively tackle sexual violence and harassment.

The University of Bath, Bath Spa, the University of Bristol and UWE Bristol have all signed the joint commitment.

The 10-point plan includes educating students on consent, providing channels to report inappropriate behaviour and supporting affected students.

It has been signed to mark Sexual Violence Awareness Week which runs until 11 February.

The universities will also collaboratively approach cases involving certain groups which are more at risk of sexual violence and harassment.

In a joint statement, the institutions said: "All students should feel safe at university, so that they can reach their academic potential and fully immerse themselves in campus life.

"We are sending a clear message that sexual violence and harassment is simply not acceptable.

"It's sometimes hard to talk about inappropriate behaviour and that's why we're bringing it out in the open. We also want to make clear to all our students that help and support is available.

"Thank you to everyone who has been involved in this pledge and who continues to support this important work."