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As part of our legal obligations, we uphold freedom of speech within the law, which may include allowing individuals or groups to host events or speakers that others don’t agree with or wish to demonstrate against. 

The º£½ÇÉçÇø also has a responsibility to maintain a safe, effective, and welcoming environment for all our students, staff and visitors.

We have a very clear Student Code of Conduct that outlines behavioural expectations. Where students engage in misconduct, as outlined in our regulations, they become subject to disciplinary action. 

The guidance below outlines some dos and don’ts around student protests around the º£½ÇÉçÇø of Sheffield campus.

Following the guidance will help to ensure that student protests can be best supported to be delivered safely for all members of the º£½ÇÉçÇø community and the general public, and reduce the likelihood of protesters breaching º£½ÇÉçÇø regulations and becoming subject to disciplinary action.

When arranging and taking part in a protest at the º£½ÇÉçÇø of Sheffield, do: 

• Where possible, give notice of the protest to the º£½ÇÉçÇø of Sheffield Security Team at security@sheffield.ac.uk
• Seek in advance and follow any safety, security, and location advice given to you by º£½ÇÉçÇø and Students’ Union staff and representatives.
• Clearly communicate information about the protest to the participants, including any relevant º£½ÇÉçÇø guidance.
• Make sure that you clear away any litter when the protest has ended.

When arranging and taking part in a protest at the º£½ÇÉçÇø of Sheffield, do not: 

• Seek to disrupt events taking place on º£½ÇÉçÇø premises by preventing speakers from talking, people from attending, or doing anything that is designed to prevent the event taking place successfully. 
• Use intimidating, abusive or threatening language via communications, placards, banners, posters, or other means. 
• Occupy º£½ÇÉçÇø buildings or disrupt any teaching, events or º£½ÇÉçÇø business. Read about the º£½ÇÉçÇø's approach to occupations.
• Intentionally or carelessly damage any º£½ÇÉçÇø or other property as part of your protest. 
• Attach posters or banners to º£½ÇÉçÇø property without permission. 
• Undertake any other activities that break the UK law.