Join us in Edinburgh for the sixth annual EmilyTest GBV Conference 2026 to tackle GBV in education.

We are delighted to invite you to our sixth annual EmilyTest GBV Conference!

Join us for a day of insightful discussions, networking opportunities, and action planning to tackle Gender-Based Violence (GBV) in universities and colleges. This in-person event will be held at the COSLA Conference Centre, 19 Haymarket Yards, Edinburgh. Our Conference continues to bring the sector together to share best practice and problem solve collaboratively, all with the aim of creating campuses that are as safe as possible for students and staff.

Building on the success of last year's Conference, this year's event will bring together professionals from across higher and further education to share case studies, good practice, and showcase tangible institutional change that is making a positive difference in tackling GBV.

Hear from colleagues leading innovative work across the UK, alongside recognised experts in the field. Delegates will also have the opportunity to attend two themed workshops, providing practical insights and opportunities to further their learning.

Demand is expected to be high due to the continued growth of EmilyTest and the GBV Charter across the UK, therefore, we strongly recommend early booking as places are limited.

Quotes from delegates 2024 & 2025:

"The conference was truly excellent. One of, if not the best, conferences I have ever been to."

"It was, as always with EmilyTest, a hugely inspiring and well coordinated event. The balance of perspectives from different universities/FEIs was very interesting and practically applicable, and the opportunity to meet colleagues in the sector was great."

"Despite all the good work we do, we need to do more. Universities need resources to do this properly - it's not just an 'add on' to someone's role."

"How much institutions can do to prevent GBV [with] EmilyTest."

"I learned the true scale and impact of GBV and the collaborative work required to address in all settings."

Full agenda and speakers to be announced shortly.

Looking for somewhere to stay near COSLA?

Below we have listed some nearby hotels.

Leonardo Royal Edinburgh, Haymarket

Hub By Premier Inn Haymarket

Mercure Edinburgh Haymarket Hotel

Voco Edinburgh - Haymarket

Description supplied by the event organiser.