Promoting good relations in higher education

This revised guidance provides an overview of the ways in which higher education institutions (HEIs) can promote tolerance and develop a culture where relationships between diverse groups and individuals enhance the learning experience, protect freedom of speech and academic freedom, tackle harassment, and contribute to an inclusive society.

This guidance supports institutions to:

• understand good relations in HE and how this intersects with equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI) and free speech
• review and strengthen policies, processes and practices relevant to fostering good relations, including making decisions about free speech, within the present legal framework
• put in place immediate, medium and longer-term strategies for managing situations/incidents that challenge good relations and fostering a tolerant and inclusive culture.

This guidance outlines good principles of process and practice that institutions should consider in their particular context.

This guidance does not constitute legal advice.

This guidance provided is based on the Higher Education (Freedom of Speech) Act 2023. Please be aware that this legislation is subject to ongoing review and changes. Key provisions of the Act are being implemented, while certain elements are being reconsidered or removed to ensure a balanced approach to free speech and academic freedom. 

Advance HE will update the guidance once there is clarity on the new legislation. Readers are advised to take this into account in considering and applying the guidance, and stay informed about the latest updates and changes to the Act, as these may impact the application and interpretation of the guidance provided. 

You can download the Promoting good relations in higher education guidance, along with the supplementary legal framework and activities and events checklist, below.