Beyond compliance: building safer institutions

With the introduction of new guidance from the Office for Students (OfS) and the implementation of the Worker Protection (Amendment of Equality Act 2010) Act, education and training providers face increasing responsibilities to prevent and respond to incidents of sexual harassment. This important webinar, delivered in partnership between UVAC and SaferSpace, will explore what these changes mean in practice and how providers can take meaningful action.

You’ll hear directly from institutions that have successfully responded to the new requirements, sharing how they’ve embedded updated policies, improved internal reporting processes, engaged learners and staff in culture change, and ensured ongoing compliance through thoughtful, sustainable approaches.

The session will also introduce SaferSpace, a platform designed to help organisations create safer, more inclusive environments through better reporting, data insights, and proactive safeguarding. Learn how SaferSpace can support your institution in taking a holistic approach to managing and preventing harassment, beyond just meeting the minimum expectations.

Legal experts from Shakespeare Martineau will provide a detailed overview of the legislative changes, highlighting what institutions need to know to remain compliant, and what steps to take to reduce legal and reputational risk.

UVAC will also outline the support available to its members and the wider sector, including tailored guidance for work-based learning and apprenticeship contexts where safeguarding can present unique challenges.

The session includes a live Q&A, giving attendees the opportunity to put forward questions to our panel of legal, policy and sector specialists.

Who should attend:

• Senior leaders and decision-makers in HE and FE
• HR, safeguarding, and student support professionals
• Apprenticeship and work-based learning providers
• Quality, compliance, and governance leads
• Anyone involved in learner and staff wellbeing.

Join us to understand your responsibilities, learn from others, and access practical tools and support to help your organisation create safer spaces for all.