At the RCASU, we stand firmly against any form of hate, intolerance, or discrimination. We are enriched by our diversity, no matter where we come from or the beliefs we hold.
We are deeply concerned about the far-right riots currently taking place in the UK and the impact they may have on our student community. These are not mere protests, but targeted acts of violence, driven by deep-seated racism and anti-migrant sentiments, fueled by political rhetoric over the years. The media’s portrayal of these riots often downplays their severity, contributing to an environment that dehumanises Black, Brown, and Muslim communities.
At the RCASU, we stand firmly against any form of hate, intolerance, or discrimination. We are enriched by our diversity, no matter where we come from or the beliefs we hold. We are committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of all our students, especially those who may feel targeted or affected by these events. While we are not currently aware of any hate crimes across our campuses, we are committed to supporting any student affected by racism, Islamophobia, or fascism, whether on campus or online. For those travelling across the UK right now, stay safe and vigilant and report any suspicious activities should you feel safe to do so.
If you are feeling distressed or unsafe, please know that support is available. RCA counselling services and student support teams are here to assist. We encourage you to reach out and connect with these resources. Together, we will continue to uphold the values of inclusivity, respect, and unity within our community
Available Support:
Student Support
Students can access support by:
- Visiting the Student Centre in Kensington. Specialist Advisors are on standby to listen and work with students to seek resolutions to issues that are impacting student experience or wellbeing. All conversations are confidential. Students can speak with one of the team in person between Opening hours: 10am-4pm, Monday to Friday, Zoom drop-in service Monday, 10am to 11am, Wednesday, 3:30pm to 4:30pm, Friday, 12pm to 1pm. Report any threat to the police, including suspicious activity using 101 or their online reporting tools, and dial 999 in an emergency.
- The Student Support team offers pre bookable appointments, available both online and in person.
- Our support pages have resources related to counselling, health and mental health, financial assistance, international support and much more.
- Through our partners at Spectrum Life, students have free, unlimited, 24/7 counselling and advice to manage whatever issues you are facing. You can call 0800 0318227 from the UK or 00353 1 518 0277 internationally.
- Students can take time out by visiting the Calm Space in the Library. Any student is welcome to access the room. It is first come, first served and does not need to be booked. More information can be found here
- Our local MET Police Team have shared information on staying safe in London. You can watch it here.
Staff Support
Staff can access support by:
- Speaking with your Line Manager. There is guidance on the HR Hub designed to help line managers support their staff during times of conflict. This includes information on Academic Freedom of Speech.
- Speaking with People and Culture. Staff can contact the HR advisors or their Business Partners for support and advice.
- Using the Employee Assistance Programme. College employees and family members in their household can get free professional and confidential help from CiC, the College's Employee Assistance Provider (EAP), 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Please call 0800 085 1376 or email assist@cic-eap.co.uk.
- Using the College’s Report + Support if you have experienced or witnessed any form of harassment, discrimination, bullying or violence.
- If you or members of your team are concerned about a student, do reach out to the Advice and Wellbeing Team through the Report + Support Wellbeing Concerns section.
Report + Support
Discrimination in all its forms is not tolerated at the RCA. You can view the College's anti-discrimination statement on our website by clicking here. If you have experienced or witnessed any form of harassment, discrimination, bullying or violence, please share it with us and access support by using Report + Support which you can find out more about by clicking here.