Fiona Hyslop Welcomes Action against Gender Based Violence in Further Education
Local MSP for the Linlithgow Constituency has welcomed the passing of the Tertiary Education and Training (Funding and Governance) Bill this week (Tuesday, 20 January) which included amendments that requires all post-16 education bodies to act to address gender-based violence (GBV) and provide support for students experiencing abuse, as a condition of the funding they receive from the Scottish Funding Council. Institutions will now be required to report annually to the Scottish Funding Council (SFC) on compliance with these new requirements around gender-based violence, under the terms of the amendments brought forward by Higher and Further Education Minister Ben Macpherson.
“The passing of this Bill and the amendments surrounding gender based violence at college and university level, will not only create impactful, meaningful change, it sends a clear message of support to those experiencing abuse or harassment.
“While I am aware of the good work that West Lothian College does to promote safety and challenge gender based harassment on campus, actively participating in campaigns, hosting workshops and providing training to staff, this Bill will give young women the added confidence to report instances of gender-based violence, knowing their concerns will be taken seriously and action will be taken, and it tells young men that violent and misogynistic behaviour will not be tolerated.
“Our colleges and universities must be safe spaces where all students can live, study and socialise without the fear of harassment.”
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