At the University of Worcester, we are committed to providing a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment for all students and staff. Bullying, harassment, sexual misconduct, and stalking are never tolerated. You can experience these behaviours in person or online, and no matter what the format, the impact can be upsetting and damaging.
If you experience or witness any of these behaviours—on campus, off campus, or online—support is available and you are encouraged to reach out.
What Do We Mean By These Terms:
Bullying is unwanted, offensive, intimidating, malicious, or insulting behaviour. It may involve an abuse or misuse of power, and can undermine, humiliate, or injure the recipient. Bullying can be physical, verbal, or non-verbal.
Harassment is any unwelcome behaviour that affects your dignity or creates an intimidating, hostile, degrading, humiliating, or offensive environment. Harassment can relate to protected characteristics under the Equality Act 2010, such as race, gender, disability, sexual orientation, religion, or age.
Sexual Harassment and Misconduct includes any unwanted sexual behaviour, comments, or advances. For more information, see our [Prevention of Sexual Misconduct and Sexual Harassment Policy].
Stalking is repeated, unwanted attention or contact that causes distress or fear, either in person or online.
Discrimination is treating someone unfairly because of who they are or because they possess certain protected characteristics.
Free Speech: The university supports free speech but does not tolerate speech or actions that harass, bully, or discriminate against others.
Online Bullying: Bullying and harassment can happen online through social media, email, or messaging apps. If you experience cyberbullying:
- Keep a record, by saving messages or taking screenshots
- Report it using the university’s procedures.
- Find further advice at Cybersmile.
What Should I Do If I’m Affected?
- You can speak confidentially with a Student Life Adviser, a member of staff, the Students’ Union, or someone you trust. If you feel safe, you may choose to speak directly to the person involved, but this is not always possible or appropriate.
Find out more about what happens when you make an appointment with a Student Life Adviser.
- If you witness bullying or harassment, you can also speak confidentially with a Student Life Adviser. As a bystander, you can help by supporting the person affected, intervening safely, or reporting the incident. Learn more about the University’s Bystander Intervention Programme
How to Report Bullying, Harassment, Sexual Misconduct, or Stalking
Immediate Danger: If you or someone else is in immediate danger, call 999.
Report a Concern: Use the Report a Concern webform to make a confidential or anonymous disclosure.
Formal Complaints: For formal complaints, see our Student Behaviour and Disciplinary Procedures.
What Happens Next: After you report, a trained adviser will contact you to discuss your options. All reports are taken seriously and handled confidentially. You will be informed about the process, possible outcomes, and support available.
Support for Respondents:
If you have been accused of bullying or harassment, support is available. The process is fair, non-judgemental, and handled on a case-by-case basis. You will be informed of the process and your rights throughout.
Support and Further Resources
- Student Life Advisers: Provide confidential advice and support for anyone affected.
- Counselling & Mental Health Service: Offer emotional support, wellbeing resources and coping strategies.
- Accommodation Team: Help with issues in university housing.
The University of Worcester does not tolerate bullying, harassment, sexual misconduct, or discrimination. All reports are taken seriously, and action will be taken in line with university policy. Disciplinary or legal consequences may apply to those found responsible.
If you are unsure where to start, contact studentlife@worc.ac.uk or make an appointment via firstpoint. You are not alone—support is here for you.