UK universities are using non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) to prevent students from speaking publicly about sexual assault, bullying, and poor teaching, according to data obtained by BBC News. Nearly a third of institutions have employed NDAs for student grievances since 2016, with cases involving false advertising, lack of disability support, and accommodation issues also covered.
One student, identified as Charlotte, reported being sexually assaulted by another student at the University of West London. Police told her there was insufficient evidence to prosecute. She claimed a staff member thanked her for not ruining her alleged attacker's life and later threatened expulsion if she made a fuss. After a formal complaint and legal action, she received £1,000 in compensation but was required to sign an NDA.
Another student, Olivia, said she was violently sexually assaulted by a fellow student. After police dropped the case, her university refused to investigate and made her sign an agreement threatening expulsion if she discussed the allegations. She was not offered compensation or legal advice before signing.
Georgina Calvert-Lee, a lawyer specialising in sexual assault cases, described most uses of NDAs for such allegations as 'unethical' and likely legally unenforceable. Universities UK stated NDAs should not be used to silence students, while the government called their use 'unacceptable' and is legislating to prevent misuse across society.
