Freedom of Expression

UAL believes in the rights of its staff, students, members and visitors to be free to express their lawful views through speech or any creative or artistic expression. We’re committed to securing these rights.

Our Code of Practice on Freedom of Expression (Word 73KB) sets out how we put in to practice our values when it comes to freedom of expression and academic freedom, and the steps that we will take to secure these freedoms. These include ensuring that we:

• tolerate and protect freedom of expression within the law, whether or not this involves views that are repugnant to us
• ensure our processes for teaching and research respect the rights of freedom of expression and academic freedom
• do not subject any individual to disciplinary action or other less favourable treatment because of the lawful exercise of freedom of expression or academic freedom
• do not unreasonably refuse consent to hold an event, meeting or other activity for the expression of any views or beliefs held or lawfully expressed.

We may have to take reasonably practicable steps to secure expression within the law. We may also have to regulate the time, place and manner of expression, but will do this only when it is necessary.

Please read this Code of Practice. In cases of uncertainty, the definitive and up-to-date statement of the UAL approach to freedom of speech is set out in the Code.

The Code also sets out the ways that you can raise a complaint or concern if you feel that there is an issue on freedom of expression, and additionally incorporates our External Speakers and Events Policy (Word 48KB) and our External Speaker Code of Conduct (Word 39KB).

Helpful information

The Office for Students has published a guide for students on free speech along with information for universities.