Saturday 16-11-2024 - 11:48

Hi everyone, it’s Lily, your CSU President.

As part of my manifesto this year, I really wanted to work on issues that directly affect students and the wider community. I felt there was an issue among students about the misunderstanding of what sexual consent really is.

So, for the next 2 weeks I will be leading a campaign on what consent is, and why it is so important for everyone to understand. The goal of the campaign is to change perceptions and start a conversation among students.

Throughout the campaign, we will be:

• hosting free self defence workshops after student feedback (check the events page to book!)
• visiting centres to hand out goodies and chat to students about consent
• displaying thoughtprovoking films brought to you by our own acting students here at Chester

So, let’s begin…

In a world where harmful behaviours unfortunately still exist, it is crucial to provide clear information about what consent really means, how to give it, how to ask for it, and why it is vital. CSU aims to empower all students to take responsibility for their actions and promote a culture of respect, communication, and mutual understanding.

What is sexual consent?

Sexual consent is the mutual, voluntary, and enthusiastic agreement to engage in sexual activity. It’s not just a "yes" or a "no" - it’s about ongoing communication, respect, and understanding. Consent can be given through words, body language, or actions, but it must always be clear and given freely, without any form of manipulation or pressure. It can be taken away at any point, and you should always feel safe and comfortable to do so.

Why does consent matter?

Consent is fundamental in building healthy and respectful relationships. When we talk about consent, we are talking about more than just sexual interactions - we are talking about respect and communication. Everyone has the right to say no to anything that makes them feel uncomfortable, unsafe, or disrespected, and no one should ever be made to feel that their boundaries are not valid. Sexual assault and harassment can leave long-lasting emotional and physical harm.

How can we promote consent on campus?

As part of the student community, we all play an important role in promoting a culture of consent. Here are a few ways to take action:

• Educate yourself and others: Knowledge is power; educate yourself and share that knowledge with your friends. We’ll be posting plenty of information on our social media over the next couple of weeks, and will be encouraging open conversations about boundaries, respect, and communication.
• Lead by example: In your relationships - whether romantic, platonic, or professional - lead by example. Respect other people's boundaries and be vocal about your own.
• Get involved: Join or support our consent campaign, even if it is just sharing a post on your Instagram Story. Be a part of the change!
• Support survivors: If you or someone you know has been affected by sexual assault or harassment, it is important to know where to turn to. In this blog post and on our social media pages you can find links to support and guidance if you or someone you know has been affected.

What to do if you experience sexual violence

If you have ever been in a situation where consent was unclear or not given, it’s important to recognise that this is a serious issue. Understand that consent is essential, and without it, any sexual activity is not only inappropriate but is also illegal. We have provided some links below to organisations that can offer support:

University Support Services:

• Wellbeing, Mental Health & Counselling team
• Report a Concern function
• SVLO - the University's Sexual Violence Liaison Officer service, which supports students who have experienced sexual violence

External Support Services:

• RASASC - Cheshire and Merseyside-based sexual violence support services
• Tomorrow's Women - Birkenhead and Chester-based centre that offers activities and support groups
• CSASS - Chester-based sexual violence counselling and group support
• Restitute - National organisation supporting family, friends, and loved ones of victims of sexual violence

What next?

We are committed to supporting all students in understanding and practicing the principles of consent, both on and off campus.

Let’s work together to create a safe space where it’s easier to speak up and everyone feels empowered to set boundaries. We want to normalise having these important conversations with each other.

Check out our Instagram - @csuofficerteam - to get involved and follow along with the campaign, and see the events.

 

Lily, CSU President

See also: Drink Spiking Awareness; Campaign close