Sexual violence guide launched for Scotland's Universities and Colleges
It follows the death of Emily Drouet, who suffered abuse at the hands of her Aberdeen Uni boyfriend
Last updated 25th Apr 2018
Scottish universities and colleges are going to be given advice on practical steps to take to tackle sexual violence and harassment – following the death of an Aberdeen Uni student who took her own life after suffering abuse in a relationship.
A new guide is being launched today, offering training for staff and underlining the importance of making help readily-available to students – it was put together by Strathclyde University.
Emily Drouet, a first year student in Aberdeen, took her own life after suffering abuse at the hands of her boyfriend.
At Aberdeen Sheriff Court last year, Angus Milligan admitted assaulting Emily, using abusive and offensive language, and sending offensive, indecent, obscene and menacing texts.
He escaped jail, instead being ordered to carry out unpaid work.
Since Emily’s death, her mum Fiona has been calling for greater help and support for students who are suffering sexual violence and gender-based abuse. She's backing the new guide.
Ms Drouet said the launch was a “significant turning point” on gender-based violence on campus.
She said: “This is Emily's legacy and I hope both staff and students will feel empowered by this resource.
“Institutions now have the help they need to pass the #emilytest and I believe that had this been in place while our daughter was at university it could have saved her life.
“We couldn't help Emily but the #emilytest can save others - a legacy Emily would be proud of.”
Aberdeen University Law student Emily Drouet, 18, was found dead in her room in March 2016.
Former boyfriend Angus Milligan was later convicted of physically and verbally abusing her and was subsequently expelled from the university.
Further and Higher Education Minister Shirley-Anne Somerville said: “Universities and colleges have a duty to foster a culture on campus that is clear in its condemnation of gender-based violence and gives staff and students the confidence to report unacceptable behaviour.
“That is why I have made the adoption of the policies and procedures outlined in this toolkit a key feature of my Letter of Guidance to the sector this year.
“I know universities and colleges are up for the challenge and I am keen to see this commitment translate into real, demonstrable action and change for women living, working and researching on campus."
The Scottish government is providing £400,000 towards the rollout of the guide.