Monday 23-04-2018 - 12:36

The Elephant in the Room is a student-led campaign seeking to raise awareness of sexual assault and harassment. Manchester Metropolitan University is committed to a zero-tolerance policy to sexual violence and in partnership with The Union, are committed to raising awareness and understanding of issues surrounding sexual consent, violence and abuse.

What is ‘The Elephant in the Room’?

‘The Elephant in the Room’ is a student-led campaign, which aims to raise awareness of sexual assault, harassment and encourages people to talk about consent.

Our student volunteers explains that: “The more people that know about sexual harassment and the importance of consent, the better their relationships will be. We want everyone to feel empowered to communicate about these (sometimes awkward) topics to prevent unwanted experiences and make sure anyone who experiences sexual assault, can feel safe and supported to speak up and seek help.”

 

Keep your eye out for elephants!

Yes, that’s right – across campus between Monday 23 April and Friday 27 April there will be large (inflatable) elephants in the room.

Come along to the pop-up stands to learn more about consent and healthy relationships without judgement, find out what support is available at University and how you can get involved.

Make sure you get a selfie with the elephant and share on social media using the #TheElephantInTheRoom hashtag and tagging in @TheUnionMMU and @ManMetUni for a chance of winning a £50 Amazon voucher.

The stands will take place 11:00 - 14:00 in the following locations:

- Tuesday 24 April – Business School

- Wednesday 25 April – The Union

- Thursday 26 April – Geoffrey Manton

 

There is lots of support available if you need it.

If you have been affected by sexual assault, the following services can offer support:

Manchester Metropolitan’s Counselling, Health and Wellbeing Service

Speak to a professionally trained counsellor, in confidence, who will listen and respond to disclosures of rape or sexual assault and can support you to access relevant specialist services should you choose to take further action.

Tel: 0161 247 3493

Email: counselling@mmu.ac.uk

Web: www.mmu.ac.uk/counselling

 

The Union MMU’s Advice Centre

The Union’s Advice Centre can help you to manage the impact that rape or sexual assault can have on your life as a student. If you need support with exceptional factors or time off from university, the Advice Centre can help you.

Tel: 0161 247 6533

Email: s.u.advice@mmu.ac.uk

Web: www.theunionmmu.org/advice

 

Local support services

There are a range of specialist support services available locally.

Find out more in our Be Clear On Consent leaflet.