It Has Happened to Someone I Know
If you are worried that someone has experienced assault, threatening behaviour, violence or abuse, there are a number of ways you can help.
You may be concerned about a friend, fellow student, colleague, learner, placement student or another member of the University community.
People affected by assault do not always feel able to seek support themselves. By listening, offering support and helping someone access advice, you may play an important role in helping them stay safe and access the support they need.
Are They Safe?
Is the person in immediate danger?
If someone is at immediate risk of harm, has been seriously injured, or a crime is in progress:
Call 999
Do not wait for a report to be reviewed.
If appropriate, help the individual move to a place where they feel safe and supported.
Understanding What May Have 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 the individual chooses to report the matter to the police.
Hate-Related Assault
Some assaults may also constitute a hate incident or hate crime if they are motivated by hostility or prejudice relating to a person's:
- race or ethnicity
- religion or belief
- disability
- sexual orientation
- gender identity
You do not need to determine exactly what has happened before seeking advice or raising a concern.
How Can I Help?
Listen
Giving someone the opportunity to talk about what has happened can make a significant difference.
Allow them to speak at their own pace and try not to interrupt, judge or make assumptions.
Take Them Seriously
Experiences of assault, violence or threatening behaviour can have a significant impact on a person's wellbeing and sense of safety.
A supportive response can help somebody feel heard and understood.
Avoid Investigating
You do not need to establish exactly what happened or gather evidence.
Your role is to support the individual and help them access appropriate support.
Discuss Options
When the person is ready, you may wish to help them consider the support and reporting options available.
Reporting a Concern
If you are worried about somebody, you can use the University's Report + Support system.
Submit a Report a Concern
This allows the University to review the concern and consider whether support or intervention may be required.
Submit an Anonymous Report
Anonymous reports help the University identify patterns, themes and emerging concerns and may assist where multiple reports are received regarding the same behaviour, location or individual.
Where available, anonymous two-way messaging can also allow individuals to receive advice and guidance whilst remaining anonymous.
What Happens Next?
Reports are reviewed by appropriately trained staff who will consider:
- the nature of the concern
- any risks identified
- support needs
- appropriate next steps
Depending on the circumstances, this may include:
- safeguarding intervention
- welfare support
- advice and guidance
- signposting to specialist services
- support planning
- liaison with external agencies where appropriate
The University's priority is to ensure that individuals are safe and able to access appropriate support.
Support Available
Students
Students may be able to access support through:
- Student Life
- Mental Health and Wellbeing Services
- Student Success Coaches
- Safeguarding Services
Staff
Staff may be able to access support through:
- Line Managers
- Human Resources
- Employee Assistance Programme (EAP)
- Occupational Health Services
- Trade Union Representatives
- Safeguarding Services
Looking After Yourself
Supporting someone who has experienced assault or violence can sometimes be emotionally challenging.
You may find yourself feeling:
- worried
- upset
- angry
- frustrated
- uncertain about what to do
It is important to look after your own well-being and seek support if needed.
Students and staff can access University support services if they have been affected by something they have witnessed or been told about.
Remember
If you are worried about someone's safety or well-being, it is usually better to seek advice or raise a concern than to do nothing.
You do not need to have all the answers before asking for help.
The University is committed to creating a safe, respectful and inclusive environment where concerns are taken seriously and support is available to all members of our community.