We are shocked, distressed and deeply concerned to witness the horrifying acts of hate including rioting and racism happening so close to home. Our community is divided, with people meeting difference with intolerance and hatred.
There is no place for hate in our community. We stand united against all forms of intolerance and violence.
We are all part of a vibrant University community where we work hard to create and enhance feelings of safety and belonging for people from all ethnicities, religions and nationalities. It starts here, with us, at this University. Understanding, learning and showing compassion for people whose lived experiences are different from our own is critical. We each have a responsibility to contribute positively to a fairer, healthier and more socially just society. This is what we stand for; this is what it means to be an Exeter student.
We cannot comprehend the fear some of our members will be feeling, as the impact of this violence is felt by families, friends and communities across the country and beyond. We encourage you to make use of the wellbeing resources and support we’ve outlined below as well as how to report incidents.
And for every member of our community, we are escalating and prioritising anti-racism and strengthening our work on community cohesion. Racism in Exeter goes far too underdiscussed despite its impact on thousands of our students. So many institutions, including us, need to do more. This year we are committed to working with community groups, local government and the University to better address racism in our community and support those who have experienced harassment or discrimination. We welcome any suggestions on how we can do more and are ready to support any groups or individual students and their own ideas for anti-racism campaigns or projects. You can contact us at @guildofficers on Instagram or reach out to our Community Empowerment Team at communities@exeterguild.com who are happy to offer support with campaigns on this or any ideas or thoughts. Racism, Islamophobia, Antisemitism and bigotry in any form are abhorrent and we have an absolute duty to oppose them wherever they exist.
Wellbeing Support
If you need support, or someone to talk to, please do get in touch with Wellbeing Services in Exeter and Cornwall for support and guidance; they are here to help.
You can also talk to our Advice Team for independent academic support and guidance.
How to Report in Exeter
We urge anyone who has witnessed or experienced any form of abuse to use the Exeter Speaks Out tool to report incidents.
Remember: if you are in an emergency, call 999 and ask for the appropriate service.
If you’re still on campus: the University’s campus security teams are mobile, response-based services covering all aspects of security, safety and welfare for staff and students on our campuses. They are available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
Estate Patrol on our Exeter campuses
Routine: 01392723999 Emergency: 01392722222
You can also contact security directly through the SafeZone app. The app is available to all Exeter students and makes it easier for you to contact Security directly from your phone.
The Devon and Cornwall Police website includes guidance on how to report a hate crime, and lists a number of local and national organisations and charities that can support if you have been a victim.
External support and reporting services:
Know your rights
In light of these events, you may want to make your voice known in your community. We encourage you to stay safe and look after your wellbeing. If you are taking direct action, here are some resources to support you in understanding your rights and some guidance on how to do it safely.
Your Students’ Guild Officer Team
Alex, Thomas, Seb, Kira and India