It Has Happened to Me
If you have experienced sexual misconduct, sexual harassment, sexual violence or sexual assault, support is available.
The University of Wolverhampton is committed to providing a safe, inclusive and respectful environment for all students, staff and visitors.
What happened was not your fault.
You do not have to deal with this alone, and what you choose to do next is entirely your decision.
Your Safety Comes First
Are you in immediate danger?
If you are in immediate danger, have been seriously injured, or require urgent medical assistance:
Call 999
If you are on campus and require urgent assistance, you should also contact University Security.
Find a Safe Space
If the incident has happened recently, consider moving to a place where you feel safe and supported.
This may be:
- with a trusted friend, family member or colleague
- in a public place
- in a University building
- at home
- with a support service
If you feel unsafe, seek help immediately.
Understanding What Has Happened
Sexual misconduct can take many forms and can affect anyone, regardless of age, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, ethnicity, faith, disability or background.
You may be unsure whether what happened constitutes:
- sexual harassment
- sexual assault
- stalking
- coercive or controlling behaviour
- unwanted sexual attention
- image-based abuse
- another form of sexual misconduct
You do not need to decide this before seeking support.
If something has happened that has made you feel uncomfortable, intimidated, violated, unsafe or distressed, we encourage you to seek advice or support.
Reporting a Concern
The University provides several ways to report concerns and access support.
Report a Concern
You can submit an identifiable report if you would like a trained 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 advice and support whilst remaining anonymous.
What Happens Next?
If you submit a report, a trained member of staff will review the information provided.
Depending on your circumstances, this may include:
- safeguarding support
- discussion of reporting options
- wellbeing support
- referral to specialist services
- support with understanding University procedures
- support accessing external agencies
You will not be pressured into making a formal complaint or reporting the matter to the police.
Support Available
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
Specialist Support Services
Specialist support is available whether or not you choose to report the matter to the University or the police.
Support organisations include:
- Black Country Women's Aid
- Rape Crisis England & Wales
- SurvivorsUK
- The Survivors Trust
- Victim Support
- NHS Services and Sexual Assault Referral Centres (SARCs)
Further information about these services can be found within this support section.
Looking After Yourself
Experiencing sexual misconduct can affect people in different ways.
You may experience:
- shock
- anxiety
- anger
- confusion
- fear
- embarrassment
- low mood
- difficulty concentrating
- sleep difficulties
These reactions are understandable.
Consider:
- speaking to somebody you trust
- seeking professional support
- accessing University services
- taking time to prioritise your wellbeing
There is no right or wrong way to respond.
Remember
You are not alone.
Support is available whether the incident happened recently or some time ago, whether you wish to make a formal report or simply want to understand your options.
The University will listen, take your concerns seriously and work with you to identify the support that is right for you.