occasion. Almost one in four respondents had feared for their safety because of their sexual orientation or gender identity and half have concealed this to avoid intimidation. Ellis concluded that although homophobic incidents on campus are low, they are frequent enough to create a climate of fear, and fear of harassment. 99
2. Equality Challenge Unit – Experience of lesbian, gay, bisexual and trans staff and students in higher education: research report 2009
The Equality Challenge Unit( ECU) conducted a survey in 2009 on the experiences of LGBT students and staff which revealed similar results to the Ellis study. The ECU’ s survey also found that institutions’ policies on equality and inclusion are a significant factor in the choice of institution for 15 % of LGB and 24 % of trans students. The report found that overall, LGBT students have a positive view of higher education and tend to think of university as a safe place. However, the report made a series of recommendations on improving the experience of LGBT students and improving procedures to protect students from homophobic and transphobic behaviour.
3. NUS, Education beyond the straight and narrow: LGB +, trans, bullying and harassment on campus, 2014
This report sought to further understand the experiences and attainment of LGBT + students in higher education. Research took place in 2014 with around 4,000 respondents from 80 institutions. Key findings include:
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Two in ten trans students feel completely safe on campus, half that of heterosexual students( 43 %) and less than LGB + students( 36.7 %).
One in five LGB + and one in three trans students have experienced at least one form of bullying or harassment on campus.
LGB + students are more likely to consider dropping out. The main reason for considering this is the feeling of not fitting in.
� 51 % of trans respondents had seriously considered dropping out of their course. �
Trans respondents are twice as likely at LGB + students to have experienced harassment( 22 % vs 9 %), threats or intimidation( 13.5 % vs 6 %) or physical assault( 5 % vs 2 %).
� Reporting levels of verbal or physical harassment, threats and intimidation are low – 16 % of those who experienced physical assault based on( perceived) sexuality or gender identity reported it to the police.
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Negative behaviour was mostly reported to tutors( 45.5 %), a friend( 40 %) or students’ union( 26.8 %).
� LGBT + students seem to feel more comfortable as part of students’ union.
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Ellis, S. J.( 2008).‘ Diversity and inclusivity at university: a survey of the experiences of lesbian, gay, bisexual and trans( LGBT) students in the UK.’ Higher Education, 57( 6), pp. 723 – 739.
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