On the 13 May, several tents were set up on campus, on the lawns in front of the Library and Arts A building as part of a peaceful protest.

The University has a foundational commitment to academic freedom and freedom of speech within the law, and we respect students right to engage in peaceful and non-disruptive protest. However, we fully appreciate that this is a vital time during the academic year and the majority of you are now in your assessment period. That is why we want to take this opportunity to assure you that we are doing all we can to minimise any disruption this might cause to you.

We understand that issues connected with Israel and Gaza/Palestine may have wellbeing implications for everyone within our community, please see below the available University support services, should you need assistance on any matter that may be affecting you.

Support for students

If any student is affected by the situation in Israel and Gaza/Palestine, they can contact the Student Centre in person or online via the MySussex portal. They can also use MySussex to book an appointment to see an advisor.

Further details of support for students, including how to report antisemitic or Islamophobic incidents are available in this message from the Vice-Chancellor.

Staff and students are encouraged to report hate incidents, harassment, or discrimination, either directly experienced or witnessed, on the University's Report and Support tool.

For full details on the University’s position on the Israel-Gaza/Palestine conflict, please see our media statements page.

We encourage all students to take some time to view the Freedom of speech during times of Conflict page on the Student Hub. The page provides information on how students can exercise their right to freedom of speech, and do so within the law, while upholding the University’s values – we have also provided information on what to do if someone has expressed an opinion which has made you feel unsafe.