Bullying
Bullying is never acceptable.
The University of Wolverhampton is committed to creating a safe, inclusive and respectful environment where all members of our community are treated with dignity and respect.
Bullying can have a significant impact on a person's wellbeing, confidence, studies, work and sense of belonging. It can sometimes be difficult to recognise, particularly where behaviour develops gradually over time.
If you are concerned about behaviour that you have experienced, witnessed or become aware of, support is available.
What is Bullying?
Bullying is offensive, intimidating, malicious or insulting behaviour involving the misuse of power that can make a person feel:
- vulnerable
- upset
- humiliated
- undermined
- intimidated
- threatened
Power does not always mean formal authority or seniority.
It can also involve:
- social influence
- perceived status
- personal strength
- intimidation
- coercion
- group behaviour directed towards an individual
Bullying can occur between:
- students
- staff
- students and staff
- colleagues
- peers
- managers and employees
What Does Bullying Look Like?
Bullying can take many forms, including:
Verbal Behaviour
- shouting
- aggressive language
- insulting comments
- ridiculing or humiliating someone
- persistent criticism
- offensive jokes
Physical Behaviour
- intimidating physical behaviour
- threatening gestures
- unwanted physical conduct
Psychological or Emotional Behaviour
- intimidation
- exclusion
- spreading rumours
- undermining confidence
- excessive monitoring or supervision
- deliberately setting someone up to fail
Online Behaviour
- abusive emails
- inappropriate messages
- social media abuse
- exclusion from online groups or communications
- sharing content intended to humiliate or intimidate
Examples of Bullying
Examples may include:
- shouting at or belittling someone
- making sarcastic or demeaning remarks
- physical or psychological threats
- overbearing or intimidating supervision
- inappropriate criticism of performance
- abuse of authority or position
- deliberately excluding someone from meetings, communications or activities without justification
- spreading malicious rumours
- persistent behaviour that undermines confidence or dignity
These examples are not exhaustive.
Bullying Can Affect Anyone
Bullying can affect people regardless of their role, background or circumstances.
It may occur:
- on campus
- in the workplace
- in teaching environments
- on placement
- during University activities
- online or through social media
- through email, messaging platforms or other digital communication
What Should I Do?
If you believe you are experiencing bullying, or are concerned about somebody else's wellbeing, you may wish to:
- speak to somebody you trust
- seek advice
- Keep a record of incidents where appropriate
- access support services
- report the concern
You do not need to be certain that behaviour constitutes bullying before seeking advice.
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.
Anonymous Reporting
If you do not feel comfortable identifying yourself, you can make an anonymous report.
Anonymous reports can help the University identify patterns, themes and areas where intervention may be required.
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
Immediate Risk
If somebody is at immediate risk of harm, a crime is in progress, or emergency assistance is required:
Call 999
Do not wait for a Report + Support submission to be reviewed.
Remember
Everyone has the right to work, study and participate in University life without fear of intimidation, humiliation or mistreatment.
If something does not feel right, we encourage you to seek advice or raise a concern. Support is available for both