Inaugural LGBTQ+ security conference reinforces University of Salford's commitment to safety on campus

Taking place at MediaCity on Thursday 1 September, the first-of-its-kind conference was attended by sabbatical officers, security representatives and students from universities across the UK. Featuring workshops, a panel discussion and talks from keynote speakers, the conference was an opportunity for attendees to act as a voice for the LGBTQ+ community on campus safety.    

The conference, in partnership with the University's Students’ Union and Critical Arc, saw attendees share best practice, new ideas and collaborate on student wellbeing and safety initiatives to implement at universities around the country.   

Professor Helen Marshall, Vice-Chancellor, opened the conference and said: “It was great to be amongst students, sabbatical officers and security representatives at the inaugural LGBTQ+ Security and Safety Conference earlier this month and hear how each institution is taking steps to create a safer campus environment for all.  

"I am very proud that the University of Salford was chosen to host this conference, which clearly demonstrates that we are moving ahead swiftly and leading the way for campus safety."

Following the success of the conference and positive feedback received, there are plans for the event to return each year and grow overtime.   

Trevor Jones, Head of Security at the University, added: “Keeping students and staff safe on campus is our number one priority. We decided to run this event specifically for the LGBTQ+ community as other security conferences don’t seem to mention the issues faced by this minority group, so we felt that it was important to create a safe environment where their voices would be heard and feedback shared. We’ve received some really positive feedback following the conference and I hope that it will become an annual event.”