If you are a member of staff using the system, you will be put in touch with a trained Harassment Support Advisors (HSAs) who provide a confidential information service on issues relating to bullying, harassment, sexual harassment and discrimination.
All HSAs are volunteers who work in a variety of roles across campus and carry out this task in addition to their day jobs. HSAs receive one full day of addition training on the University’s Dignity at Work and Study Policy and take part in a number of continuing professional development sessions each year, including training on responding to reports of sexual harassment and sexual violence (delivered by Rape Crisis). They have in-depth-knowledge of the policy and procedures and what support is available to both staff and students. HSAs are supported in this role by sessions from the counselling service on ways to ‘look after themselves’ and attend quarterly peer support sessions. The Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Team manage this Network and are available to support Advisors where necessary.
If you feel you or someone you know is experiencing or has experienced bullying, harassment, sexual harassment or discrimination, you can contact an advisor and get support through the report and support online form: just go to the report section of this site. HSAs are also available to any member of staff or student who has been accused of bullying, harassment, sexual harassment or discrimination.
Harassment Support Advisors can:
- Offer confidential information on issues relating to harassment, bullying and equality
- Listen to you without making any judgments about what you say
- Help you to clarify your thoughts about what is happening
- Explain the informal and formal procedures under the Dignity at Work and Study Policy
- Help you to explore the various options available to you
- Explain the mediation process and make a referral
- Help you to explore other sources of support which may be available to you
Harassment Support Advisors cannot:
- Offer advice or solutions on what you should do
- Act as your advocate
- Make decisions on whether bullying or harassment has taken place
- Maintain confidentiality if they believe that there is a risk of harm to you or others