It Has Happened to Someone I Know
If you are worried about another person, you do not have to manage the situation alone.
You may be concerned about a friend, fellow student, colleague, learner, placement student, member of staff or another member of the University community.
Sometimes people experiencing difficulties may not feel able to seek help themselves. By raising a concern, offering support, or helping someone access advice, you may play an important role in keeping them safe and ensuring they access the support they need.
When Should I Be Concerned?
You may be worried because someone has:
- disclosed that they have experienced bullying, harassment, discrimination or hate-related behaviour
- experienced sexual misconduct or abuse
- become withdrawn or isolated
- shown a sudden change in behaviour
- appeared distressed, overwhelmed or unable to cope
- expressed thoughts of hopelessness or self-harm
- stopped engaging with study, work or placement activities
- become difficult to contact
- experienced a significant life event or crisis
- disclosed concerns about their safety or well-being
You do not need to be certain that something is wrong before seeking advice or raising a concern.
Supporting Someone
If someone has shared an experience with you:
Listen
Give them time to talk and try not to interrupt or make assumptions.
Take Them Seriously
People often find it difficult to speak about experiences of harassment, abuse, discrimination or wellbeing concerns. A supportive response can make a significant difference.
Do Not Promise Confidentiality
There may be circumstances where support or intervention is needed to keep somebody safe.
Instead, explain that you may need to seek advice from appropriate services if there are concerns about someone's welfare or safety.
Encourage Support
Encourage the person to access support and discuss the options available to them.
Report a Concern
If you are worried about another person, you can submit a concern through the University's Report + Support system.
You can raise concerns relating to:
- safeguarding
- wellbeing
- bullying or harassment
- hate incidents or hate crime
- sexual misconduct
- abuse
- discrimination
- concerning behaviour
- vulnerability or welfare concerns
- missing students or staff members
- risks to safety
Reports can be made by:
- students
- members of staff
- placement providers
- visitors
- members of the public
Anonymous Reporting
If you do not feel comfortable identifying yourself, you can make an anonymous report.
Anonymous reports help the University identify patterns, trends and emerging concerns and may assist in identifying situations where additional intervention is required.
Immediate Risk
If you believe someone is at immediate risk of harm:
Call 999
Do not wait for a report to be reviewed.
If the concern relates to a student or staff member and urgent support is required, you should also contact the appropriate emergency services and University support services without delay.
Support for Students
Students can access support through:
- Student Life
- Mental Health and Wellbeing Services
- Disability and Inclusion Support
- Safeguarding
Support for Staff
Staff can access support through:
- Their Line Manager
- Human Resources
- Employee Assistance Programme (EAP)
- Occupational Health Services
- Safeguarding
What Happens After a Report is Submitted?
Reports are reviewed by appropriately trained staff.
Depending on the circumstances, this may include:
- welfare contact
- safeguarding intervention
- support planning
- signposting to specialist services
- consideration of formal procedures where appropriate
The University's priority is to ensure that individuals receive appropriate support and that concerns relating to safety and well-being are responded to proportionately.
Remember
If something does not feel right, it is usually better to raise a concern and seek advice than to do nothing.
You do not need to investigate a situation yourself or have all the answers before asking for help.
The University would rather receive a concern that turns out not to require intervention than miss an opportunity to support someone who may be struggling or at risk.