Individual Post

 

Speaking following the launch of the survey on Wednesday, which was conducted by the Student Consent Research Collaboration (SCORE), the Newry Armagh MLA urged the relevant authorities to take action on the students’ findings:

 

Megan Fearon said:

 

“My party colleague Caoimhe Archibald and I will be meeting representatives of the students’ union to discuss the results of the ‘Stand Together Survey’ into rates of sexual assault among Queen’s students.  

 

“The results of this survey are a damning indication of the lack of knowledge in our society about sexual consent, and of the rates of sexual assault among students.

 

“Disproportionate rates of sexual violence against women and members of the LBGTQ community were prevalent themes in particular.

 

“As the first survey of its kind in the north, this work will be instrumental in providing an evidence base for authorities to take action on the proposed recommendations of the group.

 

“Public awareness on rates of sexual assault, the role of alcohol in these crimes, and an emphasis on improving consent education are welcome recommendations.

 

“The ‘Stand Together’ survey results also point to a problem of underreporting of crimes to the PSNI and other authorities. The group’s efforts may encourage silent survivors to come forward and share their experiences, and they should be commended.”