info@recultured.co.uk
The Harmful Practices Response Index 2026- Now available to download for free.
Harmful Practices Response Index 2026
For the first time in the UK, we have a sector-wide, evidence-based picture of how higher education institutions respond to harmful practices- honour-based abuse, forced marriage and FGM.
In 2025, Recultured submitted Freedom of Information requests to universities cross the UK. We asked how they record disclosures, what training staff receive, what policies exist, and what support is available to both students and staff. The responses were analysed across seven dimensions of safeguarding practice and the findings are published here, freely available to anyone who needs them.
Grounded in real data, from real institutions, at a moment when the legislative landscape around harmful practices is shifting faster than ever. Download your copy now.
What we found
The sector is working. But it is not working hard enough, or specifically enough, on this.
Most institutions are doing something. A small number are doing it really well. But too many are relying on frameworks that were not built for the complexity of harmful practices — and the people who need specialist support are paying the price.
The data is now on the table. The conversation starts here.
Want to discuss what this means for your institution?
If you work in higher education and the findings of this Index prompt questions about where your institution stands on policy, training, data recording or staff provision - I would love to hear from you.
This research exists to drive change, not just to document the gap. If your institution is ready to do something about it, so are we.
📩 ameera.jamil@recultured.co.uk
I am also available to present the findings of the Index at sector conferences and institutional events. Get in touch if you would like to discuss a speaking engagement.
March 2026
Contributing to Research on Harmful Practices in Universities
Recultured is currently analysing how universities across the UK address harmful practices, based on responses gathered through Freedom of Information requests.
This work aims to better understand current approaches to policy, training, and safeguarding practice within higher education.
Our research is focused on how institutions identify and respond to harmful practices, including honour-based abuse and forced marriage.
- How harmful practices are defined within institutional policies
- The extent to which staff receive specific training
- How safeguarding concerns are reported and managed
- Variations in approach across institutions
Early observations suggest there is variation in how harmful practices are addressed across the sector, particularly in relation to policy coverage, staff training, and clarity of reporting processes.
A full report will be published following completion of analysis, providing further insight into current practice and areas for development across the sector.
This research informs Recultured’s work with universities, ensuring our support is grounded in current sector practice.
Contact ameera.jamil@recultured.co.uk for further info or to discuss this work.
New Publication: Disrupting Silence – Addressing Harmful Practices in UK Higher Education.
This publication explores the often-overlooked realities of harmful practices within UK universities. Drawing on survivor-informed insights and institutional casework, the paper challenges stereotypes, highlights safeguarding gaps, and offers practical recommendations for universities to better protect both students and staff.