The University of Cambridge launches a confidential survey today, questioning students on their perceptions of drinking and alcohol.

The results of the survey will be used to develop a new, institution-wide approach to promote responsible drinking at the University. It will be aimed at both drinkers and non-drinkers, in order to develop a broad perspective of behaviour.

The decision to launch a survey follows discussions by a working-group, including student members, which was set up to monitor student wellbeing.

The anonymous survey, which will run to the 11th May, will ask how much students drink, as well as what and when. Those who do not drink will be questioned as to whether the alcohol habits of others negatively affect their experience.

Graham Virgo, Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Education, said: “It is essential we have student involvement in this process for it to be meaningful and this survey is an important part of this. By examining student perceptions of alcohol we want to work towards a better understanding of how to promote responsible drinking and student wellbeing.

“Like all universities Cambridge must face this challenge. It is a priority on the national student agenda and our students’ wellbeing is something we take very seriously.”

The launch of the survey comes a few days ahead of the notorious Caesarian Sunday, when students meet on Jesus Green for a day of drinking.

Yesterday, the University and Cambridgeshire Police both released statements warning about the day, which is named after a drinking society at Jesus.

In its statement, the University said “In recent years, there has grown up an offensive and damaging tradition of large gatherings of students coming together on Jesus Green”.

“In previous years, the drunken and anti social conduct of several students at this event led to many complaints from members of the public who had intended to use this public park for quiet recreation, often with their children. The resultant publicity did serious damage to the reputation of the collegiate university”.

In a statement, Cambridgeshire Police said that “Students are urged to follow the advice of their tutors and if they choose to attend Jesus Green then to act and behave responsibly”.

Drinking societies from Girton and Jesus colleges both feature prominently in the events of Caesarian Sunday.

In an email to Clare students, Senior Tutor Dr Patricia Fara warned its students away for attending.

“Many of you will know that next Sunday is often called ‘Caesarean Sunday’ in Cambridge”, said Fara, “because students from Girton and Jesus colleges traditionally meet on Jesus Green to get very drunk and engage in initiation rites. This behaviour is extremely unpleasant for the local residents, and is damaging to the reputation of the University. There will be a strong police presence on Jesus Green on Sunday, and I strongly advise you not to go anywhere it: you really do not want to get arrested.”

A University spokesperson told Varsity that the timing of the survey, in close proximity to Caesarian Sunday, was “coincidence”.

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