Our response to the Office for Students’ consultation on a new approach to regulating harassment and sexual misconduct in English higher education

We have been committed to this goal for many years, demonstrated in the development of our 'Changing the Culture' guidance. Our members share this commitment. 

We agree the sector must continue to do more, but do not believe these issues represent a suitable matter for OfS regulation. A continuation of the sector-led approach would be more appropriate, by allowing institutions more flexibility to take context-specific approaches, and in encouraging an open culture whereby the sector can work together to find solutions to complex challenges.

If the OfS does introduce a new condition of registration, it is crucial that this is proportionate, flexible, and minimises unnecessary bureaucracy. Our consultation response highlights specific concerns with several of OfS' proposals and puts forward preferred alternatives.