Sheffield Hallam University’s Freedom of Speech Code of Practice (PDF, 660.2KB) has been developed to assist staff and students who are involved in the organisation of activities that have the potential to compromise the University’s commitment to freedom of speech within the law and/or the health and safety of staff, students and visitors to the University.

It sets out the University’s expectations and the processes to be followed to ensure that activities which are affiliated to, funded or branded as associated with Sheffield Hallam University that fall within the remit of this code of practice can be given due consideration to ensure that they do not contravene the University’s commitment in respect of freedom of speech and/or its obligations to ensure the health and safety of its community.

The University’s duty to secure freedom of speech within the law extends to the Students’ Union premises and for this reason this Code of Practice applies to activities that take place there. This Code applies to activities affiliated to, funded or branded as associated with Sheffield Hallam University that take place both on and outside of University premises, including the land and precincts around the University.

The University will seek to uphold its commitment to freedom of speech within the law, and will only impose conditions where legitimate concerns regarding the legality of the event and/or the safety of participants are justified.

If you have any further queries about the code please contact Clair Marlow, Acting University Secretary C.Marlow@shu.ac.uk.