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This section explains the key terms used in our policies and procedures on harassment and sexual misconduct. Understanding these definitions can help you recognise unacceptable behaviour, whether you’ve experienced it yourself or are supporting someone else. Further definitions are available on the .

We recognise that coming forward about experiences of harassment, sexual misconduct, or related behaviours can be difficult. We are here to listen, support you, and to ensure that you are aware of the options available. 

Understanding the Difference: Disclosure or Report

Disclosure

• Purpose: to access support and talk through your experience.
• What happens next: you will be able to speak to a trained advisor who can talk you through your options, support services and next steps.
• Your control: you decide how much you want to share and whether you want to take things further.
• Can it be anonymous? Yes, you can submit a confidential disclosure.

Report

• Purpose: to formally raise a concern which may lead to an investigation or action.
• What happens next: your report may trigger a formal process, such as a University investigation under the Staff or Student conduct procedures.
• Your control: depending on the nature of the report, the report may trigger a wider investigation. You have access to support throughout.
• Can it be anonymous? Named reports are normally required for formal processes to proceed.

Unsure which option is right for you?

If you’re not sure whether to disclose or report, that’s okay. Additional information is also available in the Sexual Misconduct Procedure. You can also use the online tool to start a conversation with a trained advisor. You can also choose to speak to someone in person by contacting directly.

Internal Resources for Students

• University’s Anonymous Reporting Service:

• Student Assistance Programme (SAP): Access online through or by phone on +44 (0)800 028 3766

• University Wellbeing Services:

Internal Resources for Staff

• University’s Anonymous Reporting Service:

• Employee Assistance Programme (EAP): Access through the or by phone on: +44 (0)800 030 5182

• The HR Department:

External Resources

• Refuge:
  • National Domestic Abuse Helpline: +44 (0)800 2000 247
• Rape Crisis: a network of independent centres that provide specialist support and services for victims and survivors of sexual violence. 
  • National Rape Crisis Helpline: +44 (0)808 802 9999
• Respect: help for .
  • Men’s Advice Line: +44 (0)808 801 0327
• Women’s Aid: the national charity working to end domestic abuse against women and children. They provide local support services, training for organisations and information if you are worried about someone else.

When you make a report of harassment or sexual misconduct, the University will take it seriously and respond in line with internal policies and procedures:

Internally

• A trained member of staff will review your report and contact you to discuss next steps.
• You may be invited to provide more information or a statement.
• If appropriate, a formal investigation will be carried out. You’ll be kept informed and supported throughout.
• Outcomes could include protective measures (for example, a no-contact arrangement, disciplinary investigation, or referral to specialist support).

Externally

• You can choose to report the incident to the Police at any time, either independently or with support from the University.
• If a criminal investigation is ongoing, any internal processes may be paused until the outcome is known

By ensuring everyone is informed, equipped, and supported, we aim to build a culture where harmful behaviours are challenged, disclosures are handled with care, and all members or our community feel safe and respected.

Online training for all staff and students

This comprehensive statement on Harassment and Sexual Misconduct will be communicated to students when they enrol at the start of each year of study.

A short online training module will be made available to all students and staff. This provides a clear overview of the University’s approach to tackling harassment and sexual misconduct. The training is designed to be accessible and informative. It does not use any case studies from our community, and it does not include graphic content. While completion is mandatory across the community, we recognise that some individuals may find aspects of the material difficult. If this is the case, you are encouraged to contact either the HR team (for staff) or Student Services (for students). Participation in the training will be recorded for regulatory reporting purposes.

Face-to-face training for key staff

The University’s Board of Governors has received a bespoke training session, and tailored training will continue to be provided to senior leaders and decision-makers to ensure accountability and understanding at all levels.

Our key policies relating to the OfS Condition E6 are linked below. All student policies are available on the Key Information page:

The University does not permit any personal relationship between a staff member and a student for whom they hold academic, pastoral, or administrative responsibility. These relationships can create real or perceived conflicts of interest, raise safeguarding concerns, and may constitute an abuse of power. Examples:

• Romantic or sexual relationships between staff and students under their supervision.
• Failing to declare a personal relationship that could affect fair treatment.

See also our .

Since September 2024, the Office for Students has prohibited universities from using Non-Disclosure Agreements (NDAs) in relation to student allegations of harassment and sexual misconduct. SA¹ú¼Ê´«Ã½ does not use NDAs or restrict disclosure of information relating to allegations about harassment or sexual misconduct.