Bristol Allies
Creating allyship in our community.
At UWE Bristol, we’re really proud to have such a diverse, inclusive and kind community. A community that makes sure everyone feels seen, heard and safe.
We want to make sure every student feels like they belong at UWE Bristol. To feel a part of our community. We want everyone to feel accepted, respected and happy whilst they’re here. To do that, we need more allies in our community – and that’s what Bristol Allies aims to do.
To our disabled students; to members of our LGBTQ+ community; to people from different backgrounds, race and religions to you; to women in our community – we can show you how to be an ally to your housemates, coursemates and our wider student body.
What is an ally?
An ally is someone who wants to support, empower or stand up for another person or a group of people. They’re not spokespeople or experts – but they’re present and active in their support. Perhaps you are passionate about issues facing other students and want to create meaningful change, or perhaps you recognise your privilege and want to challenge the status quo.
Why it’s important
People in marginalised groups often experience forms of discrimination. These people need our support – it’s our collective responsibility to make sure our community is a safe and positive place to live and learn.
How to be an ally
Being a good ally is more than supporting with words. You should also take actionable steps to support people. Below you will find some useful resources and you can hear from members of our community on how you can support them.
Let’s talk about it
Hear from people in your community on their experiences.
The Spiking Epidemic
By BA(Hons) English Literature with Writing student.
An insight – my experiences on sexual harassment
By Anna Burt, EDI Champion.
I’m striving to be a better ally, and you can too!
By Rahul Aswani, Vice President Community and Welfare, The Students’ Union at UWE Bristol.
Become a Speak Up ambassador
Join the Speak Up students’ society and help make a real difference in your community. To join, please email edi@uwe.ac.uk.
Let us know how we can do more
We (the Student Communications Team) want to learn more about the issues that affect you, what you want us to tackle and how we can do more for you. Drop us an email and let us know.
Helplines, counselling and apps
Find support if you need it.
Report and support
Speak to one of our trained advisers here at UWE so they can discretely investigate incidents, or you can report issues anonymously.
101 Police line
The number to call when you want to contact the Police Service for non-emergency matters. Available 24/7.
Strut Safe
A number to call if you feel unsafe when walking in public. You’ll be put through to a trained volunteer who will stay on the line with you until you get home.
Life360 app
A location and alert app that will allow you to share your real-time location with friends and family. Available on Google Play and the App Store.
Safe Link
Provides independent support for anyone who has been the victim of rape or sexual abuse across the whole of Avon and Somerset.
SARSAS
Listening, believing and support for people affected by rape or any kind of sexual assault or abuse at any time in their lives.
The Greenhouse
Support for those affected by sexual abuse and rape. Help to improve mental health, wellbeing and resilience through professional therapy.
The Bridge
Offering medical care, emotional and psychological support for anyone who has been raped or sexually assaulted. 24/7 access to support.
You may also be interested in
Wellbeing support
How to get the support you need when you need it.
Get 24/7 support
If you need emotional or mental health support, the University has a team who are available 24 hours a day, 7 days of the week.
Safeguarding
Find out how to raise a safeguarding concern. We take all safeguarding concerns seriously and take proportionate and appropriate action.