It Has Happened to Me
If you have experienced harassment, bullying, discrimination, hate-related behaviour or any other form of unwanted conduct, support is available.
The University of Wolverhampton is committed to providing a safe, inclusive and respectful environment where all members of our community are treated with dignity and respect.
Harassment is never acceptable, and you do not have to manage the situation alone.
Your Safety Comes First
Are you in immediate danger?
If you are in immediate danger, have been seriously injured, or a crime is in progress, contact:
999 (or 112 from a mobile phone)
If you are on campus and require urgent assistance, you should also contact University Security.
Find a Safe Space
If an incident has just occurred, consider moving to a place where you feel safe and supported.
This might be:
- with trusted friends, family members or colleagues
- in a public place
- in a University building
- at home
- with a support service
If you feel unsafe or vulnerable, seek support as soon as possible.
Understanding What Has Happened
Harassment can take many forms and may be:
- verbal
- physical
- written
- online
- visual
- intentional or unintentional
It may happen once or be repeated over time.
Harassment may be related to a protected characteristic, such as:
- age
- disability
- gender reassignment
- pregnancy or maternity
- race or ethnicity
- religion or belief
- sex
- sexual orientation
Some forms of harassment may also constitute a hate incident, hate crime or criminal offence.
You do not need to determine whether the behaviour meets a legal definition before seeking support.
If something has happened that has left you feeling intimidated, upset, humiliated, excluded or unsafe, we encourage you to seek advice or report the concern.
Support for Students
Students may be able to access support through:
Student Life
Student Life - University of Wolverhampton
Providing support with:
- wellbeing
- welfare
- disability and inclusion
- financial concerns
- student support
Mental Health and Wellbeing Support
Mental Health and Wellbeing Advice - University of Wolverhampton
Providing support for:
- anxiety
- low mood
- emotional distress
- mental health concerns
- crisis situations
Safeguarding Team
Safeguarding - University of Wolverhampton
Providing support where there are concerns relating to:
- abuse
- exploitation
- vulnerability
- safety
- wellbeing
Support for Staff
Staff members affected by bullying, harassment, discrimination, hate crime, sexual misconduct or other concerning behaviour can access support through a range of routes.
Line Manager Support
Managers can provide support, discuss available options and help identify appropriate workplace adjustments or interventions where required.
Human Resources
The HR team can provide advice regarding:
- workplace concerns
- dignity at work issues
- informal and formal resolution options
- policies and procedures
hr@wlv.ac.uk
Employee Assistance Programme (EAP)
The Employee Assistance Programme provides confidential support and advice for staff, including emotional well-being support and counselling services.
Staff Support - University of Wolverhampton
Safeguarding Team
The University's Safeguarding Team supports both students and staff and can provide advice where there are concerns relating to safety, vulnerability, abuse, exploitation or wellbeing.
Safeguarding - University of Wolverhampton
Reporting Harassment
The University provides several ways to report harassment and access support.
Report a Concern
You can submit an identifiable report if you would like a member of staff to contact you and discuss available support and options.
This route can be used by both students and staff.
Anonymous Reporting
If you do not feel comfortable identifying yourself, you can submit an anonymous report.
You can also choose to use anonymous two-way messaging, allowing you to receive guidance and support without revealing your identity.
What Happens Next?
If you submit a report, a trained member of staff will review the information provided.
Depending on the circumstances, this may include:
- safeguarding support
- advice and guidance
- signposting to support services
- discussion of reporting options
- consideration of informal or formal resolution routes
- referral to other specialist services where appropriate
You will not be pressured into making a formal complaint.
Looking After Yourself
Experiencing harassment can affect your well-being, confidence and your sense of safety.
You may experience:
- anxiety
- stress
- low mood
- anger
- difficulty concentrating
- changes in sleep or appetite
- reduced confidence
These reactions are understandable, and support is available.
Consider:
- speaking to somebody you trust
- seeking support from University services
- accessing professional support where appropriate
- Taking time to prioritise your wellbeing
Remember
Nobody should experience harassment, bullying, discrimination or hate-related behaviour.
The University is committed to fostering a culture of dignity, respect and inclusion where concerns are taken seriously and where support is available to all members of our community.
If something does not feel right, we encourage you to seek advice or raise a concern.