This document is the University’s free speech Code of Practice. It sets out how the University promotes free speech and academic freedom. The Code contains key information on what is meant by free speech and academic freedom, how this links to the University’s values, and how free speech and academic freedom is part of our admissions, appointment, and employment practices; how to complain about free speech failings; and how policy and this very Code is governed though our committee system.
It also covers free speech and academic freedom in events, research, and teaching, and how we plan to deliver more training and development to raise awareness of the rights and responsibilities in relation to exercising free speech and academic freedom.
The Code was revised in response to those parts of the Higher Education (Freedom of Speech) Act 2023 which have been passed into law and associated Office for Students’ guidance. This version was approved by the Board of Governors in July 2025, to be implemented with immediate effect. The University of Sunderland remains committed to working closely with the Students’ Union, who also have their own Code of Practice, to ensure a joined up approach to securing free speech on campus.