pictured: Dr David Pilsbury, Deputy Vice-Chanellor for International Development at Coventry University
The university has joined ProtectED, the first national accreditation scheme of its kind.
Developed at the University of Salford, ProtectED aims to make it easier for prospective students and their parents to identify universities in the UK which prioritise welfare.
The scheme requires members to have in place measures to support university security, student wellbeing, safety and mental health, and international student welfare.
To achieve accreditation under the ProtectED code of practice, member universities must meet the recognised standard which is validated by independent experts and assessors.
Dr David Pilsbury, deputy vice-chancellor for international development at Coventry University, which has over 30,000 students in locations across the UK, said: “We are delighted to be a founder member of this initiative which will help ensure safety, security and wellbeing remain a visible priority, and show students and their families how seriously we take this matter.
“Coventry is a diverse and welcoming city but, for many, living away from home for perhaps the first time in a new environment can bring challenges, and we are here to help support students at all stages of their learning experiences.
“This is another step to ensure that message is delivered in the right ways to all those studying with us.”
ProtectED director Andrew Wootton said: “We welcome the leadership and sense of purpose shown by Coventry University in joining ProtectED in its mission to improve the experience and outcomes of students in higher education.
“As a founder member, Coventry University will help us steer the development and roll-out of ProtectED over the coming years. Together we will raise standards across the sector and support students to achieve their full potential.”
ProtectED is a not-for-profit community interest company and membership organisation formed following a four-year research initiative by the Design Against Crime Solution Centre at the University of Salford.
