The University of Manchester has affirmed its commitment to addressing gender-based violence (GBV) by becoming one of the first universities in England to participate in the EmilyTest GBV Charter pilot.

Alongside Anglia Ruskin University, Birmingham City University, the University of East London, and the University of Warwick, it will support the adaptation of the EmilyTest Charter framework to fit the English higher education context and align it with the new Office for Students' registration condition on harassment and sexual misconduct, which takes effect on 1 August 2025.

The Charter has already seen success in Scotland, with 13 institutions engaged and 6 officially accredited.

Grounded in five core principles—being open and learning, educated and empowered, comprehensive and connected, equal and inclusive, and safe and effective—the Charter provides a framework for institutional change.

EmilyTest was established by Fiona Drouet following the tragic death of her 18-year-old daughter Emily, a law student who died by suicide after enduring physical and psychological abuse by another student in her university accommodation.

Determined to ensure that no other victims or survivors are left unsupported or at risk, Fiona Drouet founded the EmilyTest charity, which created the first GBV Charter of its kind for universities and colleges. The Charter sets minimum standards for the prevention, intervention, and support of gender-based violence and encourages institutions to ask a critical question: Would our policies, practices, and procedures have saved Emily’s life? Would they pass the Emily test?

The University of Manchester already has in place a specialist safeguarding service—Advice and Response—which offers holistic, trauma-informed support to students who have experienced any form of gender-based violence, harassment, or hate. The team consists of specialist caseworkers who provide confidential emotional and practical support, and link students with statutory and other support services as needed.

Campus safety remains a priority for the University, which has implemented the SafeZone app to improve emergency response times both on campus and in the wider city. The app allows students to ‘check in’ at any time, discreetly request help, or access urgent medical assistance.

Source: University of Manchester joins EmilyTest pilot to tackle gender-based violence in higher education