York St John University has launched an urgent investigation into an incident said to have taken place at a campus bar.
The alleged incident of sexual harassment took place in the busy Students’ Union Lounge on Saturday.
The university said on social media: “We are very concerned to hear about an alleged incident over the weekend and are investigating as a matter of urgency.
“We urge anyone with any information to please get in touch so we can provide appropriate support and take action.”
It added: “A culture of sexual harassment is absolutely not tolerated at York St John.”
This led to a number of people questioning the statement. One said there was video evidence and “multiple witnesses / victims of the incident”.
Another said “this isn’t an isolated incident, it’s just a very public one” adding “there *is* a culture of sexual harassment here, and there is a common fear of violence among students that you needed to take seriously long before now”.
A third asked: “How are we supposed to feel safe if we don’t know what’s being done to keep us safe? How are we supposed to feel heard when you are not feeding back the the results of your investigation?”
We asked York St John University about the incident and the concerns.
The university said: “The University and Students’ Union were alerted to an incident reported to have taken place in the Students’ Union Lounge on Saturday 7 March.
“The event was attended by a mix of students and non-students and concerns were raised about the behaviour of some individuals during the evening.
“The Students’ Union is investigating the matter and anyone who attended the event and may have relevant information or video footage is encouraged to share it through the University’s Report + Support platform.
“We are aware of speculative comments made on social media, some of which contain misinformation.
“Investigations are ongoing but witness statements and CCTV so far show no indication of inappropriate behaviour by York St John students.”
YSJ said it would not be sharing the results of its investigation.
“The University and Students’ Union operate a confidential disciplinary process. Outcomes of investigations are shared with those directly involved or affected, but they are not made public in order to protect the privacy, welfare and rights of all parties involved.”
The statement added: “The University and Students’ Union take all reports of misconduct extremely seriously and there is no evidence of a culture of sexual harassment at York St John.
“Students and staff are encouraged to report any concerns through the Report + Support platform, where reports are assessed and, where appropriate, investigated by trained, trauma-informed staff.
“Students who report or are affected by incidents are supported by Sexual Violence Liaison Officers, as well as the University’s welfare and wellbeing teams.
“Support is also available for those who wish to seek help without making a formal report.
“The University provides 24-hour campus security, dedicated Sexual Violence Liaison Officers, and drop-in welfare and wellbeing services for anyone concerned or affected by any form of misconduct.”
