Â鶹´«Ã½ÉçÇøÈë¿Ú

• Back to previous menu
• Animal Welfare and Ethical Review Body (AWERB)
• • Applications to the AWERB
  • Case Studies
  • News, Events and Training Opportunities
  • Useful Links and Key Documents
  • Cross Sector Working

Animal Welfare and Ethical Review Body (AWERB)

These pages principally deal with research and procedures involving animals.

Concordat on Openness on Animal Research

The Â鶹´«Ã½ÉçÇøÈë¿Ú is committed to meeting all external ethical and regulatory requirements for research. We are a signatory to the , which aims to help the public understand how and why animals are used on its behalf in scientific, medical and veterinary research in the UK. The University's position can be found here. 

Culture of care vision statement

The culture of care at the Â鶹´«Ã½ÉçÇøÈë¿Ú embodies the Sussex values of integrity, kindness, collaboration, courage, and openness into the day-to-day operation of the animal facility for the benefit of animal welfare, staff wellbeing, and scientific discovery.

The Sussex Values and our Culture of Care

Integrity

We foster a culture of care that is built on rigorous training to encourage accountability, responsibility, and respect.

Kindness

We ensure that both animals and staff are treated with empathy and compassion and that their wellbeing is prioritised.

Courage

We encourage staff to challenge existing practices to further advance the implementation of the 3Rs.

Openness

We always have clear and open communication between those involved in the care and use of animals.

Collaboration and Inclusion

We work collaboratively to continue implementing the 3Rs and recognise that everyone has their part to play in developing a positive culture of care.

Home Office Compliance

Statistics on the use of animals in research are returned annually by the Â鶹´«Ã½ÉçÇøÈë¿Ú to the Home Office. 

The AWERB

• The University's ethical review process involves lay representation (including a representative from an animal welfare organisation) and other members both external and internal to the University. It provides ethical advice on standards of animal care, welfare and accommodation and ensures that those working with animals are aware of their responsibilities and receive appropriate training. Veterinary and animal care staff are actively involved in the ethical review of research, welfare and care of animals and provide ongoing advice and support to researchers where appropriate.

• In the case of animal research proposals, which are not covered by the Animals (Scientific Procedures) Act 1986, the Principle Investigator, or Supervisor (in the case of student projects) is still required to apply for approval through the University's ethical review process. Students should contact their Supervisor or the Research Governance Office for advice about the appropriate form and procedure for applying for approval from the Animal Welfare and Ethical Review Board (AWERB). 

Contact us

Please contact awerb@sussex.ac.uk for further advice and guidance.