Sheffield Hallam University’s Freedom of Speech Code of Practice (PDF, 294.9KB)
The principles of freedom of speech and academic freedom within the law are fundamental to the University’s objects (to advance knowledge, education and research) and are embedded in our constitution through the Articles of Government. They form a cornerstone of our purpose to transform lives. We believe free speech enhances knowledge and learning, stimulates research and innovation, encourages critical thinking and enables our students and community to be exposed to, understand, challenge and debate differing viewpoints, beliefs and perspectives within a respectful and inclusive environment without fear of reprisal. As such, it is critical that free speech within the law is both protected and encouraged across the University.
The Higher Education (Freedom of Speech) Act 2023 (the HE(FoS)A) which amends the Higher Education and Research Act 2017 and replaces the duty which previously applied to universities under s.43 of the Education (No.2) Act 1986, places duties on the University’s Board of Governors to take steps that, having particular regard to the importance of freedom of speech, are reasonably practicable for it to take in order for it to achieve the objective of securing freedom of speech and academic freedom within the law for its staff, members, students and visiting speakers (we refer to this as the Secure Duty).
Under the HE(FoS)A the University’s Board of Governors must also, with a view to facilitating the discharge of the Secure Duty, maintain a Freedom of Speech Code of Practice (Code).
Our Code covers all aspects of academic life at the University and explains the University’s approach to complying with the Secure Duty and managing issues of free speech and academic freedom for its members, staff, students and visiting / external speakers together with our expectations relating to conduct. It also explains relevant governance, policies and procedures, including those for meetings and events and where visiting / external speakers are involved (to which a separate procedure approved under this Code and linked below applies), and how we will make decisions.
Procedures approved under this Code: Visiting/External Speaker Procedure (PDF, 280.2KB).
If you have any further queries about the Code please contact Clair Marlow - University Secretary.
