If you think someone you know has been sexually harassed there are lots of ways in which you can help them.
Understanding the behaviours associated with sexual harassment is a good place to start. Most people will be able to describe what has or is happening to them and how it's making them feel.
Sexual harassment is unwanted behaviour of a sexual nature which violates your dignity, makes you feel intimidated, degraded or humiliated, or creates a hostile or offensive environment.
Think
- Are they in immediate danger? If they are in immediate danger or seriously injured, you can call 999 (or 112 from a mobile).
- Finding a safe space. If possible try and find somewhere they feel safe. If this isn't possible and you are on campus you can call Security on 01227 922355.
- Safe Zone. You can also use the Safe Zone app to immediately contact Security if you are on campus.
Talk
- Listen. Just taking the time to listen to someone and talk about what has happened can help. These six active listening tips might help you support them.
- Give options. When they have finished talking, ask them if they are okay to talk through some possible options and next steps.
Report
- Reporting to the police. If you are in immediate danger or seriously injured, you can call 999 (or 112 from a mobile). Alternatively, you can report using the non-emergency number 101.
- Report and Support. Students and staff can report an incident using the University’s Report and Support system. You can choose to do this anonymously or you can request support from an advisor. If you choose to talk to an advisor they will be able to talk through the options and support available to you, in confidence.
- University Procedure. If you choose to make a formal complaint to the University against a student or a member of staff there are procedures that set out the steps you’ll need to follow
Support
Take care of yourself. It’s important that you take care of yourself. If you’ve heard something distressing or if something is troubling you, the University's Counselling Service offers confidential help and is open to both students and staff.