Updated statement on the ongoing conflict in Israel and Palestine

As a university, we stand behind our colleagues, students, researchers and alumni affected by the conflict and violence during this difficult and distressing time. The RCA also stands firmly against unlawful discrimination in all its forms, whilst being committed to ensuring freedom of speech and expression within the law.

As a global institution, we are very concerned about the impact of the conflict on all universities in the region, and the destruction of Palestinian universities and cultural institutions in Gaza. We are looking at what more we can do to support students and academics from conflict zones, to open up existing scholarships to students from Palestine and to UK-resident asylum seekers and refugees; and the potential of working with third parties on becoming a Sanctuary institution. Our thoughts are with all those who have lost their lives, livelihoods, families and friends.

If you are a member of the RCA's staff, researcher and student community and need support, please remember that help is available.

All students can access support by:

• Contacting RCA’s Student Support Team and resources through Moodle and/or attend a virtual or in-person drop-in session. The team offers a wide variety of services including mental health and wellbeing support, visa advice, financial support, impact on studies and much more. You can also reach the team in person by visiting the Student Centre.
• Please use our Report + Support tool if you have experienced or witness any form of harassment, discrimination, bullying or violence – we look at every case reported to us and take all reports extremely seriously. You can make an anonymous complaint, if you wish. However, the College will be unable to fully investigate anonymous complaints under this procedure as we are unable to complete an appropriately robust investigation. Any anonymous complaints that are submitted will be recorded and may be notified to the relevant Dean or Service Lead.
• 24/7 Wellbeing Support via Spectrum.Life The Student Assistance Programme Support line is a free, confidential service that provides you with emotional and practical support for concerns big or small. It is available to all RCA students and provides unlimited access to a telephone helpline, available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.
• Imperial Chaplaincy doors are open for RCA Students to engage in confidential, supportive conversations with secular or faith-based advisers. One-to-one sessions can be booked by following this link.
• Reaching out to the RCA Students' Union.

Staff can access support by:

• Speaking with your Line Manager. There is guidance on the HR Hub designed to help line managers support their staff during times of international conflict. This includes information on Academic Freedom of Speech.
• Speaking with People and Culture. Staff can contact the HR advisors or their Business Partners for support and advice.
• Using the Employee Assistance Programme. College employees and family members in their household can get free professional and confidential help from CiC, the College's Employee Assistance Provider (EAP), 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Please call 0800 085 1376 or email assist@cic-eap.co.uk
• Using the College’s Report + Supportif you have experienced or witnessed any form of harassment, discrimination, bullying or violence.

If you or members of your team are concerned about a student, do reach out to the Advice and Wellbeing Team through the Report + Support Wellbeing Concerns section.