Addressing Student Sexual Violence in Higher Education

Reviews / Votes

The first edition of this book has become indispensable to anyone working to combat gender-based violence in UK higher education.
This second edition, with cutting-edge new material and case studies, is also set to become an instant classic. Its recommendations on good practice should be read and acted on by everyone - activists, practitioners, researchers, and leaders - trying to change their university for the better. -- Anna Bull, Senior Lecturer at the University of York and co-director of The 1752 Group This is a very timely new edition of a book that should be essential reading for anyone seeking to tackle sexual misconduct in universities. New chapters on matters such as the impact of technology provide vital new evidence and guidance. This includes setting out the growing prevalence of technology-facilitated sexual misconduct, as well as the benefits of using technology to investigate cases and support students. This balanced approach infuses the whole book, working towards a system and policy approach that works fairly for all. -- Professor Clare McGlynn KC (Hon), Professor of Law at Durham University, Expert on Violence Against Women & Girls The second edition of Addressing Student Sexual Violence in Higher Education: A Good Practice Guide by Clarissa J. DiSantis and Graham J. Towl is a crucial and timely resource for higher education providers committing to combatting sexual violence in their communities. The authors provide actionable advice and guidance on critical areas such as policy development, prevention education, and institutional responses, paving the way for a comprehensive, institution-wide, survivor-centred, and trauma-informed approach.


Di Santis and Towl's intersectional approach ensures that their guidance is practical and effective across diverse educational settings. This book is a must-have for higher education professionals working towards safer and more supportive environments for all students. -- Sharna Bremner, End Rape on Campus, Australia Founder & Director A necessary and critical blueprint for Higher Education Institutions to incorporate in their efforts to tackle sexual violence and to change culture and attitudes. Socially relevant, this guide will be useful to anyone committed to embracing and normalizing safety, security, accountability and equality for those who are vulnerable to sexual predatory behavior. It is a comprehensive guide on what to do and what not to do with respect to preventing and responding to sexual violence written in the best interests of the student and without shying away from the gendered realities of who is more likely to be a victim. At the same time there is an explicit call to action that provokes a sense of urgency to reduce the prevalence of sexual violence coupled with a sober assessment of measured progress against the backdrop of resistance, stubborn biases and institutionalized failings. The broad scope of this guide makes this a useful tool for leaders, practitioners, policymakers, student services administrators, case managers, educators, investigators, adjudicators, activists. Additionally, its narrow focus makes this updated guidance an essential lifeline to those responsible for receiving sexual violence disclosures and those drafting and revising the policies. -- Furaha-Joy Sekai Saungweme, Founder of the Africa End Sexual Harassment Initiative (AESHI) In Addressing Student Sexual Violence in Higher Education, DiSantis and Towl draw on their extensive experience to provide this thorough and practical guide for universities looking to improve campus safety. The book offers insights into best practices for prevention, intervention and support in relation to gender-based violence, making it an essential resource for anyone working in this field. I highly recommend it as a vital tool for all practitioners aiming to create lasting, meaningful change on campuses. -- Fiona Drouet MBE, Founder and CEO of EmilyTest