It can be very distressing if you have been accused of bullying, harassment, or sexual misconduct. It’s important to be aware that the University will not make assumptions and will not consider a person ‘at fault’ until an accusation has been investigated. All those involved in a complaint will be treated fairly and offered advice and support.
It’s good practice to take time to reflect about the other person’s perception of your behaviour. Even if you feel that your behaviour was well-intentioned, your words or actions may have hurt or offended another person, and this may be thought of as an opportunity for learning, or perhaps for a change of approach.
- Listen carefully to the complaint and to the particular concerns expressed.
- Take time to reflect on the complaint and consider how valid the issues raised are. You must also recognise that if someone feels harassed, this is how they feel, even if this is not what was intended.
- Avoid all but necessary communication with the complainant until there is a negotiated mediation and you understand the best steps forward.
- You are likely to need advice and support to understand the complaint. Find a way to discuss the matter with someone you trust, such as a manager, or someone identified by them, Student Support or People Services.
- If you feel you are being unjustly accused, consider asking for mediation from People Services or Student Support. Supported informal discussions involving you, the person alleging ill-treatment, and a trained mediator may enable you to discuss the issues and find a way forward.
What happens when something is reported?
When a report is made about a student or staff member, there are procedures that will be followed. The reporting party may wish to speak to an advisor to discuss their options for informal or formal resolution.
If informal resolution is pursued, the reported person will be contacted by an appropriate manager, to try and resolve the matter.
If the matter proceeds formally, the reported behaviour of a student will be investigated under the Dignity and Respect Policy, and the reported behaviour of a member of staff will be investigated under the Bullying and Harassment Policy .
Get Support
Students who are concerned about their behaviour can speak to their:
Student Support Team
Staff who are worried about their behaviour can speak to:
People Services
Employee Assistance Programme
Trade Unions
People Services
Employee Assistance Programme
Trade Unions