Preventing Gender-Based Violence

ATU Respect: Fostering Respect, Preventing Gender-Based Violence A Safe, Inclusive Campus for All

Our Zero-Tolerance Policy on GBV

Atlantic Technological University (ATU) is committed to providing a safe, supportive, inclusive, and respectful work and study environment for all members of its community. It is the responsibility of the University, together with all its staff and students, to ensure a working and learning environment where everyone is treated with equality, dignity, and respect. 

ATU recognises the widespread prevalence of gender-based violence in Irish society. The University recognises that all forms of gender-based violence are unacceptable. The University is committed to creating, promoting, and maintaining a culture in which all forms of gender-based violence will not be tolerated.  

The University recognises the importance of an intersectional approach to responding to and preventing gender-based violence. The perpetration of any form of gender-based violence does not discriminate based on race, ethnicity, age, sexual orientation, family status, religion, disability, or socio-economic status, not all people experience equal responses when seeking help and stereotypes and discrimination can create additional barriers for people from minority backgrounds seeking help. An intersectional approach to gender-based violence requires consideration of a person’s individual identity to ensure equality of outcome for all. 

Learn More About Our Zero-Tolerance Policy 

About ATU Respect 

ATU Respect is committed to creating safe, supportive campuses by promoting zero tolerance of all forms of gender-based violence (GBV). Learn how we’re building a culture of respect and understanding. 

What is the ATU Respect Programme? 

ATU Respect is a key ATU initiative that is preventing and responding to gender-based violence including sexual violence, coercive control, stalking and sexual harassment. Through education, support, and robust policies, we work to prevent and respond to all forms of GBV in our community. 

What is GBV? 

Gender-based violence includes sexual violence, coercive control, sexual harassment, stalking, and physical, emotional, and financial abuse. Rooted in power imbalances and inequality, GBV affects mental, physical, and emotional wellbeing. While women are most affected, people of all genders and backgrounds can experience GBV. 

Key Features: 

• Awareness-raising about GBV 

• Consent education 

• Active Bystander training 

• Prevention training 

• Promoting healthy relationships 

• Challenging harmful gender norms 

• Confidential reporting pathways 

• Support services 

• Strong policies and procedures 

Prevention through Education:

ATU provides workshops and awareness campaigns to help students and staff understand consent, GBV, healthy relationships, and how to challenge harmful gender norms and unacceptable behaviours.

Support and Reporting:

We offer confidential reporting pathways and trained professionals who handle GBV disclosures with care and sensitivity.

Active Bystander Training:

Empowering students and staff to intervene and challenge inappropriate behaviours through training.

Grounded in National and International Policy 

The ATU Respect Programme is aligned with key frameworks, including: 

• Ending Sexual Violence in HEIs Implementation Plan 2022-2024 

• Irish Government Zero Tolerance Strategy on GBV 2022-2026 

• Istanbul Convention (2011) 

• EU Directive on Combating Violence Against Women and Domestic Violence (2024) 

Resources for ATU Students and Staff 

• Education & Awareness Campaigns: Regular campaigns on GBV and consent. 

• Workshops & Training: Specialised workshops for students and staff on GBV, consent, active bystander and handling disclosures. 

• Confidential Support: Connections to ATU and community support services. 

• Reporting Pathways: Clear, confidential channels for reporting violence or harassment. 

• Speakout: An anonymous reporting tool for incidents of GBV, bullying, discrimination, or harassment.

For guidance on how to report an incident of Gender-Based Violence, contact: respect@atu.ie

Research and Collaboration 

ATU Respect collaborates with researchers, policymakers, and institutions to develop evidence-based strategies and interventions for preventing and responding to GBV. 

Collaborations: 

• With HEA and Government to uphold national standards in higher education. 

• With other HEIs for joint education, research, and prevention initiatives. 

• With community partners such as Rape Crisis Centres, Domestic Violence Support Services, Active* Consent, An Garda Siochana and Sexual Health West.