Supporting Staff & Students Experiencing Gender-based Violence (GBV) during COVID-19
Advance HE in partnership with the charity #EmilyTest, CDN and Universities Scotland have produced guidance and support for staff and students who might be experiencing gender-based violence (GBV) and abuse while social distancing measures are in place due to Covid-19
For many, home is not a safe and secure place. The COVID-19 outbreak united with current social distancing and self-isolation requirements can be particularly challenging for those experiencing gender-based violence (GBV) and abuse.
Because we recognise that GBV occurs across all sections of society, it is important to acknowledge that staff members may be victims (and perpetrators), as well as people who may identify a potential victim/survivor or receive a disclosure.
Responding to Disclosures of Sexual Violence is an online course which empowers staff across a wide range of roles and departments to manage this sensitive and complex issue, providing them with the skills to respond appropriately and empathetically
Support you can offer
The following are the key messages collated by GBV agencies to provide you in your role as a potential source of support.
- There are many reasons why colleagues or students behave differently in these times, or do not attend meetings or classes. Be aware that control by a GBV perpetrator may be one of these.
- If you receive a disclosure, acknowledge it, listen and ask the victim/survivor what they want you to do.
- You are not expected to be a GBV expert or a counsellor.
- It is ok to feel worried about broaching the subject, getting it wrong and making things worse, if you suspect a colleague or student is experiencing abuse.
- Victims/survivors often do not want you to ‘fix’ things – listening and believing are important. You can offer to seek advice and information for them if they wish for it.
- Think safety – a perpetrator might be listening in. If you do feel you need to approach the issue, do so conversationally, saying things like “You haven’t been in touch much lately. Is everything OK?” or “I’ve noticed you seem a bit down. Has anyone upset you?”
- Let the person know they can talk to you when they want to.
- If you have concerns about a child, follow your child protection guidance.
Sources of support
Advance HE in partnership with the charity #EmilyTest, CDN and Universities Scotland have produced guidance and support for staff and students who might be experiencing gender-based violence (GBV) and abuse while social distancing measures are in place due to Covid-19
https://endgbv.uk/SupportduringCOVID-19/tabid/8573/Default.aspx
Refer to the Disclosure of Sexual/Violent Crime page
Public Health Scotland’s information leaflets on GBV, providing accessible background information about various forms of GBV:
www.healthscotland.scot/health-topics/gender-based-violence