It Has Happened to Me
If you have experienced verbal assault, physical assault, sexual assault, threatening behaviour or violence, support is available.
The University of Wolverhampton is committed to creating a safe, inclusive and respectful environment for all students, staff and visitors.
Assault of any kind is never acceptable.
If something has happened that has left you feeling frightened, intimidated, distressed or unsafe, you do not have to deal with it 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:
Call 999
If you are on campus and require urgent assistance, you should also contact University Security.
Find a Safe Space
If an incident has happened recently, try to move to a place where you feel safe and supported.
This may 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, seek help immediately.
Understanding What Has Happened
Assault can take many forms and may include:
Verbal Assault
Behaviour intended to intimidate, threaten, alarm or distress another person, including threatening or abusive language.
Physical Assault
The use or threat of unlawful force against another person, including behaviour that causes someone to fear immediate violence.
Sexual Assault
Any unwanted sexual touching or sexual activity without consent.
Sexual assault is a criminal offence and support is available whether or not you choose to report the matter to the police.
Some forms of assault may also constitute a hate incident or hate crime if they are motivated by hostility or prejudice relating to a protected characteristic.
You do not need to determine whether an incident meets a legal definition before seeking 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 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 the circumstances, this may include:
- safeguarding support
- advice and guidance
- 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
Students
Students may be able to access support through:
- Student Life
- Mental Health and Wellbeing Services
- Safeguarding Services
- Disability and Inclusion Support
Staff
Staff may be able to access support through:
- Line Managers
- Human Resources
- Employee Assistance Programme (EAP)
- Occupational Health Services
- Safeguarding Services
Specialist Support
Depending on the nature of the incident, additional support may be available through:
- Victim Support
- West Midlands Police
- NHS Services
- Sexual Assault Referral Centres (SARCs)
- Black Country Women's Aid
- Rape Crisis England & Wales
- SurvivorsUK
- The Survivors Trust
Further information about these organisations can be found within this support section.
Looking After Yourself
Experiencing assault or threatening behaviour can have a significant impact on wellbeing.
You may experience:
- shock
- anxiety
- fear
- anger
- confusion
- difficulty concentrating
- sleep difficulties
- reduced confidence
These reactions are understandable.
Consider:
- speaking to somebody you trust
- seeking support from University services
- accessing professional support where appropriate
- taking time to prioritise your wellbeing
You do not need to manage this on your own.
Remember
Nobody should experience violence, threats, intimidation or assault.
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 concerns seriously and work with you to identify the support that is right for you.