Statement on OfS sexual misconduct survey

We are deeply concerned by the data reported by the Office for Students (OfS) showing disproportionately high rates of sexual misconduct experienced by students on medical and dental courses compared with those on other university programmes.

These findings reinforce the concerns highlighted in the BMA’s recent survey and underline the urgent need for sustained action across both higher education and clinical training environments.

We are already working with regulators to strengthen reporting mechanisms for all forms of harassment and discrimination. Medical and dental schools are also required to comply with recommendations and standards set by regulatory bodies across the four nations of the UK. In England, this includes the OfS requirements for universities to protect students from sexual harassment and discrimination, alongside Universities UK guidance on preventing and responding to harassment and misconduct. In Scotland, universities work within the Equally Safe framework to prevent and tackle gender-based violence. We also welcome the NHS Sexual Safety Charter and recognise the importance of a coordinated, system-wide approach across both education and healthcare settings.Medical and dental courses differ from many other university programmes in several ways. They are typically longer in duration, have a predominantly female student population and involve substantial time spent in clinical environments and placements throughout training. Clinical environments can create additional complexity in ensuring clear accountability and consistent reporting mechanisms, particularly where incidents involve individuals outside the university’s direct employment structures. This can result in multiple, and at times fragmented, reporting pathways across institutions and placement providers.

The Medical Schools Council and Dental Schools Council have established working groups to address sexual misconduct and strengthen support for students. This includes exploring the development of more consistent reporting and support systems across the UK to help ensure that all healthcare learners are protected and supported when concerns arise during clinical placements.

We recognise that tackling sexual misconduct requires collective action across education and healthcare. There is no place for harassment, discrimination or sexual violence in healthcare education or practice. We remain committed to listening to students and working collaboratively to drive meaningful and lasting cultural change.