There is a separate list of demands for Coventry University. However, we are keen to stress that the SU is a separate organisation to the university. Our powers are limited by law and ultimately our purpose is to support students throughout their academic journey and not to share opinions on political discussions where there are likely to be differing views across the student body. We support all students studying at the Coventry University Group from many different countries and often provide support for those from countries where events have occurred that may adversely affect their welfare. Recent examples include our statement on the Spanish floods, our statement on protests affecting students in Bangladesh, and our statement providing support and guidance on protesting and calling for a ceasefire in Gaza, and in previous years our predecessors have released similar statements relating to conflicts in Gaza and Ukraine, earthquakes in Türkiye and Syria, and many other global events that may have affected our students.

We remain committed, as ever, to support any student affected by the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

In regards to advocating for student groups and influencing change at the university, we will explore having regular discussions with key members of the university’s leadership team to ensure that student voice is considered and heard in decision making.

The demands for the SU from the group were as follows:

1. End all partnerships with Domino’s
   We are happy to consider this when the current sponsorship arrangement ends next year.
2. Sign the open letter to the university in support of the movement
   We do not feel we can sign the letter as we feel some of the demands on the university are unrealistic and may impact the student experience of our members. We are aware that the university has confirmed they have no direct investments in Barclays and any funds managed are subject to strict ethical filters, so we feel part of this demand has already been addressed. We do, however, agree that the university should reaffirm its commitment to the safety and wellbeing of all students and take more proactive measures to foster an inclusive and respectful campus environment for all. Wherever we can influence discussion within university leadership to make Coventry a safer and more supportive place for students, we will do so.
3. Support and sponsor a conference to educate students on what they can do to pressure universities to support the cause and create momentum for the cause
   We are happy for representatives from the SU to attend a conference, however we are limited with what support we can offer for the running and funding of this. We don’t have the resources e.g. venue to host such a conference and we are unable to finance political causes or donate or sponsor them.
    

As we have said in previous statements, we call for an end to the violence in Gaza. We will always advocate for unity and peace and will not tolerate any form of racism, islamophobia, antisemitism, hate or harassment to any student. Wherever possible, we will amplify the voice of student groups and provide support to campaigns.

Here’s a reminder of support services for anybody affected: 

Your Students’ Union Advice Service

Mental Health and Counselling
Email: counsell.ss@coventry.ac.uk
Phone: 024 7765 8029

Hate and Harassment
Access the report form
Email: report.ss@coventry.ac.uk
Phone: 024 7765 8029

Spirituality and Faith
Email: faith.ss@coventy.ac.uk
Phone: 024 7765 8029

Resources:

• Information about islamophobia: https://mcb.org.uk/resources/islamophobia/
• Information about antisemitism: https://www.nus.org.uk/information_about_antisemitism