St Andrews Survivors rejects 'mediation' talks over rape claims
The group says it can't agree to the university's confidentiality agreement in fear it wouldn't be able to seek accountability and change
Last updated 29th Jul 2020
A student-led group highlighting rape and sexual misconduct allegations says it cannot agree to 'mediation' with St Andrews University.
An online post from St Andrews Survivors says it was asked by the university's Head of Mediation and Wellbeing for discussions to remain confidential.
But it says by doing so it wouldn't be able to seek accountability and change.
A St Andrews Survivors spokesperson said: "Under the terms of strict confidentiality presented to us, we would not be able to disclose any of the contents of our 'mediation' meetings to others.
"We do not feel safe or comfortable engaging in these discussions under confidentiality.
"The University has yet to make a public statement acknowledging the issue of sexual abuse in our community that has recently been brought to light.
"Of all our concerns, we simply cannot budge on the issue of confidentiality. Under confidentiality we would not be able to transparent with you all about the progress being made or openly collect feedback from the voices we want to inform these changes."
Police Scotland has yet to receive any reports in relation to the online allegations.
St Andrews Survivors adds the mediator must be neutral to ensure fairness for both parties.
"The mediator the university wanted us to use is an employee of the university. We are uncomfortable with the mediation process generally, but even more so given our 'neutral' mediator could have such a substantial conflict of interest."
Nearly one hundred posts explaining experiences of sexual abuse or rape have been made public on the group's Instagram page.
The identity of individuals have remained anonymous, with the organisation saying it's goal is to "empower survivors of sexual violence at St Andrews University."
A university spokeswoman said: "Survivors have categorically not been asked to sign a confidentiality agreement. They have been invited to engage in an ongoing consultation, which will offer a range of student groups and societies, including elected student representatives, equal and fair opportunity to engage in discussions and shape policy."
"As yet, neither the University or the Police have received any actionable report as a result of the claims which have been made on social media.
“We suggested that these discussions should respect confidentiality in the first instance for their protection and to provide a safe space for discussion, given the trauma that survivors of sexual misconduct have experienced and that dialogue may involve disclosure of deeply personal information.
“Our consultation is being led by our Head of Mediation and Wellbeing, who is also the policy lead for gender-based violence and Chair of our Equally Safe Committee, which involves students and staff from across the University.
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