08.08.24

A message of solidarity and support following the recent riots

Categories: University Campus

The University of Salford, our recognised Trade Unions and Salford Students’ Union stand united in strongly condemning the appalling acts of racist and Islamophobic violence and hate witnessed over the past week. We stand together in supporting Muslim communities and minoritised ethnic colleagues and students who will understandably be feeling scared and vulnerable at this time.  

 

We are proud of the diverse community we have at Salford, and we will not let hate divide us. Our EDI Statement of Ambition outlines our commitment to pro-actively addressing all forms of racism, and now more than ever we need to ensure that we are all pulling together to bring that commitment to life. The safety of our colleagues and students is our top priority, and we must respond to events that seek to threaten the core of our community.  

We recognise that the environment for minoritised ethnic groups, those who are visibly Muslim, international students, and those who have experienced forced migration such as asylum seekers and refugees is incredibly difficult. That is why solidarity and allyship from every single member of our community is so important. We are asking our community to:  
 

  • Recognise that racial trauma can have physical and mental health implications. It is a difficult and emotional time when the psychological and physical safety of minoritised ethnic people in the UK are being threatened. Please do check in with each other, offer support and provide reassurance that there is a community that cares here at Salford. 

 

  • Consider that colleagues and students might be fearful of traveling to campus. If possible, offer the opportunity to work flexibly off site. For those colleagues who attend campus for their work, encourage conversations around car share or getting public transport with a colleague or friend. Please be extra vigilant when travelling and be assured that our Security team will be available to support you. If you do have concerns, please speak to your School contact or line manager.   
     
  • Be aware that enhanced security measures are in place, with additional Security officers on site. They are carrying out reassurance patrols in key areas and are available to escort staff and students to and from their destination if required. Please call Security on 0161 295 4773 if you would like to arrange this.  

 

Students and staff can access additional information about the ongoing work that is taking place at the University of Salford to combat racism, keep our campus secure and support our community via our internal channels. 

University of Salford Student Hub (internal access only) 

University of Salford Staff Hub (internal access only) 
 

Reporting an incident 
 
If you experience or witness anything that concerns you, please use the Report It  service. If there is an immediate threat to safety, please contact the Police directly or call University of Salford Security on 0161 295 3333 or via the SafeZone app. SafeZone provides you with access to emergency or urgent assistance should you need it, first aid and the ability to report emergency incidents and concerns. It isn’t limited to our Salford campus thanks to our Greater Manchester Universities alliance that allows the three Security control rooms of Salford, Manchester and Manchester Metropolitan Universities to respond across a greater area. 

 

Student support 

Students can speak to a member of the askUS team, or the Students’ Union, or contact the Faith Centre. Information on other wellbeing support can be found on our website

 

Staff Support 

Staff can seek support from their line manager and department, contact the Faith Centre, reach out to our EDI Team at equity@salford.ac.uk, or speak to a Trade Union representative

If you are a visitor, please speak to your host who will be able to signpost support. 

Stay safe, and please do access the resources available if required. 

 

University of Salford Leadership Team, Salford Students’ Union, UCU, Unison 

For all press office enquiries please email communications@salford.ac.uk.