FTO Statement: Standing Against Antisemitism and All Forms of Racism

Over the last week we have been horrified to see a spike in antisemitism and Islamophobia across the UK, including on campuses and within the student community.

The scenes we’ve all seen in the news of the escalating terrorism and violence in the Middle East have been deeply upsetting to watch. Our thoughts are with all those impacted.

We are very clear, no member of Birmingham’s student community should be treated as accountable for events in the Middle East.

We have a zero-tolerance policy against all forms of violence, harassment, online abuse, racism and discrimination, including antisemitism and Islamophobia.

If you have experienced or know of someone who has experienced distress or prejudice, please report this.

There are specific services available for anyone experiencing antisemitism. You can contact:

• The Union of Jewish Students’ hotline on 020 7424 3288
• The Community Security Trust on 0800 032 3263, or
• In an emergency call 999.

As well as specific services available for anyone experiencing Islamophobia. You can contact:

• Tell MAMA, where you can speak in confidence
• The Muslim Youth Helpline, which offers an online chat service as well as traditional contact methods, and
• The Islamophobia Response Unit, or
• In an emergency call 999.

Our services are also here for you and ready to help in whatever way they can.

Should you need to reach out for any reason, contact:

• Our Guild Advice service (wellbeing and academic issues, including mitigating and extenuating circumstances) or
• Our student mentor team for those living in University of Birmingham accommodation.

You can also access the University’s student support services including:

• Speaking to the Wellbeing Officer in your School/College
• UB Heard, the University’s confidential helpline
• Report and support, which you can access anonymously or
• The Multi-Faith Chaplaincy, where you can speak confidentially to someone.

Your Full-Time Officer Team