The OU Students Association is aware of the legal action Professor Jo Phoenix is taking against The Open University. Our priority is to ensure our students have access to the wellbeing and support services they need. While the tribunal serves as a mechanism for addressing specific issues, it is essential to remember that our overarching goal is to create a safe, inclusive, and nurturing environment for all OU students. The Students Association is not involved in any way with the case itself.
There is support available for students who are affected:
- Contact your Student Support Team; they, along with the Gender Identity Champions, are available to provide support and guidance during your studies.
- The OU has a safe space reporting tool, Report + Support, which can be used to report any form of bullying, harassment, discrimination or hate crime you have experienced or witnessed. You can choose to report incidents anonymously or make a named report with contact details and receive support from one of our advisers. All information provided through Report + Support is treated sensitively and confidentially.
- If you would like to raise a complaint with the OU in relation to the case or its outcomes, please follow the instructions on the Help Centre.
- Don’t forget TalkCampus, the OU Wellbeing App and SHOUT are available for all students whose Mental Health or Wellbeing is affected.
This case may raise a lot of emotions but to foster a supportive and welcoming community of OU students, we ask that you remember to be kind to each other during what may for some be a difficult time.