Harassment is never okay and is contrary to the Equality Act 2010 and The LSBU Student Harassment, Bullying, and Sexual Misconduct Policy
Speaking up can be difficult, but reporting makes a difference and can prevent it happening again. Anybody can report harassment —whether they are the victim, a witness, or someone who has heard about an incident.
Think
- Is it an emergency? If anyone is in immediate danger or seriously injured, contact the emergency services on 999 (or 112 from a mobile phone).
- Find a safe space. If an incident has just happened, try and find somewhere you feel safe.
Get Support
- At LSBU - students and staff can tell LSBU about any incident of harassment on this Report and Support website. If you choose to talk to a specialist advisor, they will be able to talk through the options and support available to you, in confidence. This can include support formally reporting internally or externally, and access to mental health and wellbeing support, including counselling, if you want it to.
- Externally - you can get advice and guidance from Victim Support via their website, or via their helpline: 08 08 16 89 111. You can check out Citizens Advice for info about what you can do about harassment.
Formally Report
- To LSBU - You can make a formal complaint to the University about a student or member of staff if you want it to be investigated. These MyAccount FAQs have more info:
- How do I make a report of a student’s unacceptable behaviour or conduct?
- How can I make a complaint? (to report a staff member)
- To the police by calling 101, using this website, or by visiting a police station. In an emergency, call 999.
If someone tells you about their experience of harassment:
- Listen. Just taking the time to listen to someone and talk about what has happened can help. It can be helpful to remind them it’s not their fault and to acknowledge it might be difficult to speak about it. Try to avoid asking questions like ‘why didn’t you leave’ as this can unintentionally contribute towards victim-blaming.
- Give options. When they have finished talking ask them if they are okay to talk through some possible options and next steps. Tell them about Report and Support.