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Consent Framework Implementation

Framework for Consent in Higher Education Institutions

The Framework on Consent for HEIs was launched on April 5th 2019. The Framework is a policy document from the Department of Education & Skills that sets out expectations in terms of institutional culture, organisational procedures and structures, and targeted initiatives for students and staff. 

The goal of the Framework is to identify the areas in which HEIs are expected to be active in having a culture that highlights and prioritises sexual assault prevention as an important responsibility, supported by specific, transparent, and accessible policies, and reflected in the direct experience of students (e.g. exposure to messaging on sexual assault and consent, impact on awareness and understanding of active consent). HEIs are expected to proactive in identifying how existing structures and processes should be adapted to meet these aims, and in working toward the goals set out in the Framework.

 ‌Consent Framework (2020) - cover
The Framework can be accessed here 

Consent Framework Implementation in NUI Galway

Consent Framework Implementation Action Plan

NUI Galway’s Consent Framework Implementation Action Plan was submitted to the HEA on February 26th 2021. You can access the Action Plan here: Consent Framework Implementation Action Plan. 

Staff & Student Awareness-raising and Education

A layered programme of staff awareness raising and training has been developed, led by Dr Pádraig MacNeela and the Active* Consent Team, supported by the OVPED. The first element of this programme was provided to members of UMT, Heads of Schools and larger Units via Zoom on September 8th, 2020. First Point of Contact training (9 hours over three x 3-hour sessions) has also been developed. The Active* Consent team will deliver this training in conjunction with the Galway Rape Crisis Centre.

An awareness raising video for all staff was launched in May 2021 to introduce the Consent Framework and the concept and tips around disclosure - the Staff Awareness video can be accessed here. An 8-week campaign to support disclosure, knowledge and skills for students and staff was launched by Active* Consent, Galway RCC, and USI on March 1st 2021.

You can find out more about the Active* Consent Programme here. The Active* Consent Toolkit can be accessed here.