Support Available for Staff
The University of Wolverhampton is committed to providing a safe, inclusive and supportive working environment where all staff are treated with dignity, respect and fairness.
If you are experiencing difficulties at work, have been affected by bullying, harassment, discrimination, safeguarding concerns, wellbeing issues, or are supporting someone else who is struggling, a range of support services are available.
Seeking support is a positive step and you do not need to wait until a situation reaches crisis point before asking for help.
Line Manager Support
Your line manager may often be the first source of support.
Managers can help by:
- listening to concerns
- discussing available support options
- considering workplace adjustments where appropriate
- supporting wellbeing conversations
- helping staff access relevant University services
- signposting to specialist support
If your concern relates to your line manager, alternative support routes are available.
Human Resources
The Human Resources team can provide advice and guidance on:
- dignity at work concerns
- workplace conflict
- bullying and harassment concerns
- discrimination concerns
- employment policies and procedures
- workplace wellbeing
- support available to staff
HR can also help identify appropriate pathways for support and resolution.
Safeguarding Support
The University's Safeguarding Team provides support for both staff and students.
Safeguarding support may be appropriate where concerns relate to:
- abuse
- exploitation
- vulnerability
- domestic abuse
- stalking
- sexual misconduct
- coercive or controlling behaviour
- mental health and wellbeing concerns
- risks to personal safety
Staff can access advice even if they are unsure whether a concern meets safeguarding thresholds.
Employee Assistance Programme (EAP)
The Employee Assistance Programme provides confidential support to staff and can assist with:
- emotional wellbeing
- stress and anxiety
- relationship difficulties
- financial concerns
- legal information
- counselling support
The EAP is available independently of University management processes and can provide a confidential space to discuss concerns.
Occupational Health
Occupational Health may be able to provide support where health or wellbeing is affecting work, or where work is affecting health and wellbeing.
Support may include:
- health and wellbeing advice
- workplace recommendations
- return-to-work support
- adjustments and accommodations
Trade Union Support
If you are a member of a recognised trade union, you may wish to seek advice and support from your union representative.
Trade unions can provide:
- independent advice
- representation
- workplace support
- guidance regarding policies and procedures
Information about recognised trade unions and membership options can be found through the University's HR webpages.
Workplace Adjustments and Support Measures
Where appropriate, support measures may be considered to help safeguard wellbeing and enable staff to remain safe and supported at work.
Depending on individual circumstances, this may include:
- temporary workplace adjustments
- changes to working arrangements
- flexible working considerations
- adjustments to reporting arrangements
- phased returns following periods of absence
- wellbeing support plans
Any support measures will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
Reporting Concerns
Staff can raise concerns through the University's Report + Support system.
You can:
- report concerns about yourself
- report concerns about another member of staff
- report concerns about a student
- seek safeguarding support
- report bullying, harassment or discrimination
- raise wellbeing concerns
- access advice and guidance
Reports can be submitted with contact details or anonymously where appropriate.
Keeping You Informed
Where you provide your contact details, the University will seek to ensure that you:
- understand the next steps
- know who is managing your concern
- have a point of contact for queries
- receive updates where appropriate and possible
The level of information that can be shared may vary depending on the circumstances and confidentiality considerations.
Follow-Up and Ongoing Support
Support does not necessarily end when a concern has been addressed.
The University may continue to provide:
- wellbeing support
- safeguarding support
- workplace support
- signposting to specialist services
- follow-up conversations where appropriate
We aim to help ensure that staff feel safe, supported and able to thrive at work.
Promoting a Respectful Culture
The University is committed to fostering a culture of dignity, inclusion and respect.
This includes:
- promoting positive behaviours
- encouraging early help-seeking
- supporting wellbeing
- tackling bullying, harassment and discrimination
- providing staff development and awareness opportunities
- creating environments where concerns can be raised safely
Everyone has a role to play in creating a respectful and supportive University community.