The UK government is introducing new legislation to criminalize cuckooing and child criminal exploitation (CCE), aiming to safeguard vulnerable individuals, including university students. Criminal groups often target students, coercing them into allowing their accommodation to be used for illegal activities, particularly in county lines drug operations. With clear legal definitions and stricter penalties, the legislation enhances protections, encouraging universities to strengthen safeguarding measures, improve victim support, and collaborate more closely with law enforcement. This marks a significant step in preventing exploitation and ensuring student safety within higher education environments.

Universities play a pivotal role in shaping the future of society by providing education, fostering research, and promoting cultural and intellectual growth. However, fulfilling these responsibilities comes with the crucial duty of ensuring the safety and wellbeing of students and staff. Safeguarding obligations, which encompass measures to protect individuals from harm, abuse, and neglect, are essential to creating a secure and supportive academic environment. Unfortunately, the current economy is increasingly threatening universities' ability to meet these obligations effectively as they must prioritise meeting regulatory requirements and financial sustainability.

The Prevent Duty, part of the UK's counter-terrorism strategy, has been a significant aspect of higher education policy since its introduction under the Counter-Terrorism and Security Act 2015. This duty requires higher education institutions (HEIs) to have "due regard to the need to prevent people from being drawn into terrorism." Over the years, this duty has been subject to various updates and revisions. The latest changes, introduced in December 2023, bring several key modifications aimed at refining and enhancing the implementation of the Prevent Duty in higher education.

Universities in England are responsible for ensuring the safety and well-being of their students, particularly those who may be at-risk to abuse, neglect, or exploitation. This duty extends to reporting safeguarding concerns to local authorities. However, universities face a myriad of challenges in this process. These challenges include navigating complex legal frameworks, maintaining confidentiality, ensuring timely and effective communication, and dealing with the diverse needs of a largely adult student population.

Safeguarding supervision plays a crucial role in ensuring the safety and wellbeing of students, staff, and the wider university community. For university staff involved in safeguarding roles, whether as managers, counsellors, or wellbeing officers, engaging in regular supervision offers numerous benefits that contribute to a safer and more supportive educational environment.