Procedure 069: Freedom of Speech
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Procedure 069: Freedom of Speech
- PURPOSE
1.1 This document outlines the procedures to be followed in the event of a breach of ACM’s Freedom of Speech Policy. ACM is committed to ensuring that all members of the community can express their opinions in a responsible and respectful manner, and these procedures are designed to address any instances where this policy is violated.
1.2 These procedures are designed to ensure a fair and transparent process for addressing breaches of ACM’s Freedom of Speech Policy. The institution’s goal is to maintain a respectful and inclusive environment while upholding the principles of freedom of speech and academic integrity.
- PROCEDURE DETAILS
Reporting and initial assessment
2.1 Any member of the ACM community who believes that a student has breached the Freedom of Speech Policy should promptly report their concerns to their Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL).
2.2 Upon receiving the report, the DSL will conduct a preliminary investigation to determine the severity of the alleged breach. If the breach is deemed minor and can be resolved through informal discussions, the DSL may opt for a mediation process to address the issue. If the breach is more serious and warrants further action, the DSL will escalate the complaint to include relevant parties.
Investigation
2.3 The investigation may involve gathering evidence, interviewing relevant parties, and reviewing any relevant documents or communications. The investigation will be conducted in a fair and impartial manner, and confidentiality will be maintained to the extent possible.
Suspension
2.4 In cases where the alleged breach is deemed to be of a serious nature and may pose a risk to the ACM community or the individuals involved, the DSL, in consultation with ACM leadership, may decide to suspend the student from the institution temporarily. Suspension is a precautionary measure to ensure the safety and well-being of all parties and is not a punitive measure. Suspension does not imply guilt. During the suspension period, the student will be informed of the reasons for the suspension and the ongoing investigation.
Post-investigation
2.5 Once the investigation is complete, the DSL will prepare a report detailing the findings of the investigation. The report will include information about the alleged breach, the evidence collected, and any relevant statements obtained. The report will be submitted to an ACM panel for review.
2.6 Based on the investigation report, the panel will determine whether the student has breached the Freedom of Speech Policy. If a breach is confirmed, the appropriate actions will be taken, which may include disciplinary measures, educational interventions, or further dialogue with the student.
Right to appeal
2.7 If the student is found to have breached the policy and is subjected to disciplinary action, they have the right to appeal the decision. The appeal process will be communicated to the student in writing along with information on how to submit an appeal.
- RELATED POLICIES AND PROCEDURES
- Higher Education (Freedom of Speech) Act 2023
- European Convention on Human Rights, Articles 10 and 11
- Public Order Act 1986
- Equality Act 2010
- Office for Students (OfS) Regulatory Framework
- Middlesex University Code of Practice on Freedom of Speech
- ACM Student Charter
- ACM PREVENT Duty
- ACM Equality and Diversity Policy
- ACM Safeguarding Policy
- ACM Student Disciplinary Policy
- ACM Freedom of Speech Policy
- PROCEDURE OWNER
4.1 The policy lead is responsible for the cyclical monitoring and review of this procedure in liaison with the Quality Assurance and Enhancement Manager. The Freedom of Speech lead is:
- Head of Quality and Standards
4.2 Decisions and appropriate actions in support of the implementation of the Policy will be authorised by the following designated staff:
- Head of Academic Practice
- Group Lead on Student Experience
- Head of Quality and Standards
- Quality Assurance and Enhancement Manager
- Designated Safeguarding Lead
- DOCUMENT HISTORY AND NEXT REVIEW
Version: 1.0
Approved on: 01 September 2025
Approved by: Academic Board
Date of next review: August 2026
Download: PRO_069 Freedom of Speech