Every student has the right to feel informed and empowered while engaging in protest, there are some things to be aware of that can help you to protect yourself and others.   

General 

If you can, attend the protest with a group, and agree before the event a place to meet should you get separated. 

Wear weather appropriate clothing and bring water. Being in a crowd can be warm and easily lead to dehydration.  

If you can, consider wearing a mask to protect those who are immunocompromised 

Media  

An event such as a public demonstration or protest can attract media.  

If film crews or journalists approach you, you are not required to speak to them, and shouldn’t feel pressured to answer any questions that make you uncomfortable. If you do not want to be filmedyou can state that you do not consent and move away. 

It is well within your rights to ask what organisation or outlet they are from and where the content may be shared.  

Social media can also carry risks at protests, and you should be careful not to photograph or film attendees without their clear consent. Uploading images of yourselves at protests is well within your rights, but if you are concerned about privacy, you shouldn’t feel pressured to post, or to be in the post of another.  

Police and personal information  

If you get stop and searched, you do not have to give police or organisers any personal information – this includes name, occupation, and visa status.  

The majority of UK protests do not result in police action or arrest, but if you have any concerns about your current visa status or how arrest may affect any future applications, you should seek specific legal advice. If you are unsure, remember there are many different ways to campaign.   

Campaigning at MDX  

MDXSU supports students’ right to campaign and protest. If you would like to make change here on campus, set up a student campaign, or work within an existing SU group, you can reach us at studentvoice@mdx.ac.uk 

Support 

The MDXSU Advice service offers independent, confidential, non-judgement advice to support you through a range of issues relating to your studies at Middlesex University.  

studentadvice@mdx.ac.uk | 020 8411 6450 | MDX House 

Green and Black Cross can provide support during protests, or following police interaction on their Protest Support Line | 07946 541 511 

You have the right to free legal advice if taken to a police station, but duty solicitors don’t always have experience with protest law. You can ask the police to instead contact organisations such as:  

Bindmans | 0207 833 4433 / 020 7305 5638 (out of hours)  

To see various other wellbeing services, visit https://www.mdxsu.com/wellbeing-services