As a committee member, you help shape the spaces where people connect, learn, and grow. Sometimes, that growth involves navigating difficult conversations about identity, trauma, politics, race, gender, inequality, or personal beliefs.
These conversations, while challenging, can lead to some of the most meaningful moments in your group, but they require care, structure, empathy, and a strong sense of context.
This guide is here to help you handle sensitive topics intentionally and responsibly, drawing on expert-informed practices, including the Three A’s Framework, Ten Tips for Facilitating Discussions, and guidance from educators and institutions across the UK.
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Start with Intention
Be intentional. Be reflective. Be accountable.
Before you start a conversation, ask yourself:
- Why does this topic matter right now?
- What is the wider context (social, cultural, political)?
- What are my own biases or assumptions?
- What would a successful outcome look like?
If your answer is “to see where it goes,” pause. Sensitive topics deserve more than a casual approach—they need clear purpose and preparation.
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Understanding the Importance of Context
Context shapes how a topic is understood, how it lands with different people, and what emotional or social dynamics may emerge in the room.
Before engaging with sensitive topics, consider:
- What’s happening locally or globally that may affect how people engage with this topic?
- Is there lived experience in the room that might not be visible?
- Are you providing enough background for people to engage meaningfully?
Without context, words can be misinterpreted or leave people feeling alienating. With it, they become more grounded, respectful, and productive.
Also, beware of providing partial information. When only one side of a story is told—or when facts are shared without acknowledging nuance—discussions can feel biased or misleading. Strive for balance, and where appropriate, invite multiple perspectives.
Providing context isn’t just about knowledge—it’s about recognising power, emotion, and perspectives of each individual person present.
Frame the conversation, give space for lived experience, and be clear about what you know—and what you don’t.
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The Three A’s Framework: A Tool for the Unexpected
Not every sensitive topic is planned. Sometimes, someone brings up a difficult issue spontaneously. That’s where the Three A’s Framework is useful:
1. Anticipate
- Know your members: Are there topics that might impact them personally?
- Stay aware of current events and local dynamics.
- Review your session plans with an eye for what might emerge emotionally.
2. Acknowledge
- If a topic arises or emotions surface, name it.
- Say something like: “I can see this topic is meaningful for some people here. Let’s take a moment to allow people to leave this conversation, and then let’s please approach it with care.”
3. Act Authentically
- Respond from a place of thoughtfulness, not reaction.
- You don’t need to fix or solve—just be honest and lead with clarity and care.
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Planning a Discussion: The Ten Tips
Use these tips to design events that are safe, structured, and inclusive:
1. Prepare Yourself and Others
- Reflect on your own relationship with the topic.
- Share the topic and purpose ahead of time.
- Offer optional resources: videos, articles, framing questions.
Don’t spring the topic on anyone. Let participants know what’s coming and give them space to prepare—or opt out. Use our Trigger Warning guidance for ideas on how to do this.
2. Clarify the Purpose
Start with a clear goal, and make it contextual:
- “We’re here to explore how this issue shows up in student life, and to share experiences.”
- “We want to understand different perspectives and identify steps our society can take.”
Don’t assume everyone shares the same background knowledge—some may be new to the topic; others may live with it every day.
3. Establish or Revisit Ground Rules
Build these with your group, or suggest a few:
- Listen to understand, not respond.
- Challenge ideas, not people.
- Avoid assumptions about identity or experience.
- No one is required to speak.
Asking participants to help generate the rules increases buy-in and trust.
4. Create a Framework
Structure brings safety. A strong framework might include:
- An opening check-in or warm-up
- 2–4 guiding questions
- Time for small group or pair discussions
- A clear closing moment
Think of it like opening a jar of marbles—gently and with intention. You want to explore emotions without them flying uncontrolled across the room.
5. Be an Active Facilitator
Guide without controlling:
- Ask follow-ups
- Connect themes across responses
- Step in if someone monopolises or crosses a line
The best facilitators speak less and listen more.
6. Be Prepared for Emotion
These topics matter—and that means they’re emotional.
- Acknowledge intensity without shutting it down.
- Offer people space if they need it.
- Avoid high-pressure formats.
Handled with care, emotional responses can enrich learning and connection.
7. Include Everyone and Respect Boundaries
Encourage contributions, but never force them.
- Offer alternative formats (e.g. written notes or anonymous submissions).
- Use small groups to build confidence.
- Respect silence—people may be participating internally.
8. Summarise Clearly
Before the session ends, highlight key themes:
- What resonated with the group?
- What remains unclear?
- What action might follow?
This helps “gather the marbles” back into the jar and bring the conversation to a considered close.
9. Reflect Afterwards
Take time to reflect:
- What went well?
- What could be improved?
- What did I learn about the group and myself?
You might also gather anonymous feedback to refine future discussions.
10. Act
If insights or needs have emerged, act:
- Share follow-up resources
- Adjust your group’s practice or policies
- Plan a follow-up session
Even small steps build trust and momentum.
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What to Do When Conflict or Emotion Escalates
- Pause the conversation—reset with a short break or grounding activity.
- Redirect gently—bring focus back to the topic, not personalities.
- Step in firmly if boundaries are crossed.
- Check in privately with anyone who seems upset.
- If needed, postpone or move the discussion to a better time or format.
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Special Considerations
- Some topics require extra care: trauma, grief, discrimination, religion, sexuality.
- Avoid sensational materials unless essential, and always offer content warnings.
- Choose formats that allow reflection, not just confrontation.
- Know where to refer someone if they need more support than you can offer.
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Final Thought
Sensitive discussions are not easy, but they are essential. With context, structure, and empathy, you can turn difficult conversations into moments of real connection and change.
Handled well, these conversations help your society become a space where people feel not just welcomed but valued.
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Need Help?
The Student Opportunities Team is here to support you in planning, facilitating, or following up on sensitive discussions. You’re not alone - reach out at any time.