An update to our previous statement regarding changing spaces at the Sportspark.
The welfare of all our users is of paramount importance and we take all aspects of privacy, dignity, decency, health and safety of the centre and its users very seriously.
Regarding recent protests and online campaigns, we have a responsibility to operate within the legal frameworks protecting freedom of speech. This includes the expression of all lawful opinions, even those that may be controversial or unpopular, or those we may personally disagree with. It is crucial that we remain neutral in order to effectively fulfil our responsibilities.
Under UK law, all individuals have the right to engage in peaceful protest and as long as a protest remains lawful, we do not have any powers to intervene. The UEA security team continues to work closely with local police to ensure all planned events are lawful. If any unlawful conduct is identified on our campus, we will act, liaising with police as appropriate.
We would like to reassure Sportspark users that any attempt to undertake protests within the facilities, or cause disruption to the business, is prohibited and will be dealt with as necessary.
We fully recognise the complexities and sensitivities of balancing the rights and needs of different groups accessing public spaces, together with our legal responsibilities when providing appropriate facilities. We continue to review our obligations in this respect to ensure compliance with legal and regulatory requirements.
We have designated male and female changing spaces and provide a range of changing options for our users. These include separate and accessible changing, self-contained changing cubicles as well as group change spaces. We provide self-contained shower facilities in additional to our communal areas.
Since our previous statement we have sought legal advice, reviewed our building structure and facilities and engaged with regional and national leisure operators and UK sports governing bodies. We are in active discussions with other higher education providers and, since January 2024, are members of a new working group to share practice across the sector. We continue to listen to our users and we greatly value all your feedback on this matter.
We aim to ensure all our users can access spaces with privacy and dignity and we would ask all Sportspark users to be respectful of others and sensitive to different personal circumstances when using our facilities. Users are reminded that they can report any behavioural or safeguarding concerns to sportspark@uea.ac.uk or to the Manager on Duty.