It can be very distressing if you have been accused of bullying, harassment, sexual misconduct, or any other problematic behaviour. 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 on 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.
- Do not try and talk to the person who has raised the allegation, if known, or try to find out who has raised the allegation if not known. It may be perceived that you are attempting to persuade them not to take forward their complaint.
- 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 tutor, or someone identified by them or Student Support or HR to provide appropriate support.
- To resolve the matters raised, it may be suggested that mediation takes place between you and the person that has made the allegations. This involves 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 the relevant staff member to discuss their options for informal or formal resolution.
If an informal resolution is pursued then the reported person will be contacted by an appropriate manager or tutor to try and resolve the matter.
If the matter proceeds formally, the reported behaviour of a student will be investigated under the Student Disciplinary Procedure, and the reported behaviour of a member of staff will be investigated under an HR Procedure.
Get Support
Students who are concerned about their behaviour can speak to:
Staff who are worried about their behaviour can speak to: