We have launched a new initiative to support anyone who has experienced sexual violence or gender-based abuse at any time in their lives.  

The Sexual Violence Liason Officer service gives you more options and greater access to support, whether what happened was recent, in the past, on campus or off campus. We understand that everyone’s experience is different, and we’re here for you, no matter what you’re going through.  

We know that some of you may be in crisis right now, experiencing abuse in the moment, or coping with a one-off incident. Others may be thinking about disclosing something that happened months ago, or years ago. Whatever your circumstances, we’re here to help you. 

A safe and confidential support service  

The Sexual Violence Liaison Officers (SVLOs) work in the Students’ Union Advice Service in the Harm and Prevention Team. They are specially trained to support anyone who experiences sexual violence, harassment, or unwanted behaviour. They can guide you through your options confidentially, without judgement, and will help you to access the right resources, support and information. 

When you reach out, it doesn’t mean that you must make a report or make a formal complaint to UCL (our service is confidential and independent from the university), but they can help you with this, if you wish.  

Nothing is shared with anyone without your full consent. Unless there is exceptional risk to the safety of yourself or others, our SVLOs will never pass anything you tell us to anybody else without your permission. That means you can find support whatever your circumstances.  
  
Remember, you don’t need to have all the answers, be able to name what happened, or decide what to do next before contacting our SVLOs. They’re here to offer a safe, confidential space where you can talk, be heard and find out what support is available - at your own pace and on your own terms.  

With your consent, SVLOs can support you with things like:   

  • Support you with practical matters , such as academic adjustments, housing arrangements, or other concerns.  
  • Understanding  UCL’s reporting processes, only if you want to.  
  • Referrals to counselling and specialist services (with your consent)   

 Preventing harm  

This service builds on the specialist support that already exists at UCL, giving you more ways to access help if you are experiencing sexual violence, harassment, or gender-based violence. We are here to help when you are not ready or don’t want to share your experience yet with the university or Student Support and Wellbeing Services. 

Sexual violence, harassment, and gender based-abuse continues to impact many across our community, and while it is widely accepted that no one should have to face these experiences, we know that sadly, it still happens. I want to ensure every student knows they will be listened to, believed, and supported when they reach out to the service. We’re here for you and you are not alone. 

- Hana Mougharbel, Welfare and Community Officer  

Support at UCL

At UCL, you can access Independent Sexual Violence Advisers (ISVAs) within the SRS (Student Registry Services) Casework Team, who provide confidential advice and support, including guidance around formal disciplinary processes, working alongside the Crime Prevention & Personal Safety Team.  This team can support you when you have been impacted by someone's behaviour within the UCL community such as a staff member or another student. 

You can also receive support from the Specialist Advice and Casework Team, based within Student Support and Wellbeing Services (you can book an appointment here). They specialise in supporting students who have experienced sexual violence, domestic abuse, or harassment, and offer non-judgemental advice on disclosing experiences, safety planning, and navigating police, court, and housing systems. 

The team liaise with internal and external services and can make referrals to counselling and other specialist support. Where needed, they can also make safeguarding referrals to support students, children, or vulnerable adults affected by abuse. They can help you liaise with your department too, if your studies have been impacted - so you don’t have to manage it on your own. 

If you are a student and have experienced sexual violence, you can contact an SVLO whenever you feel ready.  

What's next?

Last updated 1 day ago