The University is committed to fostering an inclusive culture which promotes equality, values diversity and maintains a working, learning and social environment in which the rights and dignity of all members of the University community are respected.
The University expects all members of the University community, its visitors and contractors to treat each other with respect, courtesy and consideration in line with the Harassment Policy. Any form of harassment, including sexual harassment, is unacceptable.
Please note that college policies and procedures may differ from University policies.
I've experience bullying and/or harassment, what can I do?
We encourage anyone who has experienced or witnessed bullying or harassment to seek support and advice. Talking to someone is an important step, but we recognise that sharing your experience may be difficult or daunting. There are a number of options available to staff and students to report bullying and/or harassment and access support.
Staff
Speak to someone for support and advice
If you experience or witness bullying and harassment, or are concerned about something, talking through the events can help you decide on the best way to deal with the situation. You do not need to know what action to take before seeking advice and even if you do not wish to make a formal report you can still access support.
University staff who experience or witness bullying and harassment are encouraged to speak to their manager, a HR colleague, or the Head of Department to get support and guidance on the options available to them. In most instances, your manager will be the most appropriate person to speak to initially.
Harassment Advisory Service
If you are unsure of what steps to take, you can also speak with a trained Harassment Advisor for confidential, impartial guidance regarding your options. Speaking to a Harassment Advisor does not mean that you're making a formal complaint to the University. It is to enable you to access the information and support you need to make an informed decision.
Report + Support
Access support through Report + Support, an online tool that connects you with support and allows you to report instances anonymously.
You can also speak to a trade union representative.
Students
Student Guide
Whether you're a student looking to make a report, helping a friend, or a member of staff responding to a disclosure from a student, the student guide is a valuable source of information. It is a comprehensive guide to the support and resources available if students witness or experience bullying and harassment.
Speak with a Harassment Advisor
Students can also speak with a trained Harassment Advisor for confidential impartial guidance regarding their options. Speaking to a Harassment Advisor does not mean that you're making a formal complaint to the University. It is to enable you to access the information and support on the options for resolving the situation informally (where appropriate) or making a formal complaint that you need to make an informed decision.
Other sources of support
- Your college dean or welfare team
- Oxford SU Student Advice (confidential and impartial advice)
- Student Counselling Service (confidential emotional and wellbeing support)
- Student Sexual Harassment and Violence Support Service
