It can be very distressing if you have been accused of bullying, harassment, or sexual misconduct. It’s important to be aware that we will not make assumptions and will not consider a person ‘at fault’ until an accusation has been investigated. All those involved in a complaint will be treated fairly and offered advice and support.
It’s good practice to take time to reflect about the other person’s perception of your behaviour. Even if you feel that your behaviour was well-intentioned, your words or actions may have hurt or offended another person, and this may be thought of as an opportunity for learning, or perhaps for a change of approach.
• Listen carefully to the complaint and to the particular concerns expressed.
• Stop the behaviour that’s been complained about straight away; if you are deemed to have bullied or harassed somebody after their objection to your behaviour was made known to you, this will be seen as a more serious issue.
• You are likely to need advice and support to understand the complaint: find a way to discuss the matter with someone you trust, such as a manager or a colleague to provide appropriate support.
• If you feel you are being unjustly accused, consider asking for University of Southampton Mediation . Supported informal discussions involving you, the person alleging ill-treatment, and a trained mediator may enable you to discuss the issues and find a way forward.
Get support
Student wellbeing service - The University’s team of professional wellbeing advisors, practitioners and counsellors offers confidential support. This includes wellbeing chats. This can be accessed 24/7 via The Student Hub. Please call The Student Hub on +44(0)23 80599 599 or email studenthub@soton.ac.uk
The SUSU Advice Centre - is a free, confidential, impartial service where an advisor can talk through the procedure, how to complain, what options are available and support you through the process. This support includes checking draft complaints and attending any meetings with the University.
Employee Assistance Programme - EAP is a confidential and independent support service for University staff.
University policy - If you choose to make a formal complaint to the University against a student or a member of staff there are procedures which set out the steps you will need to follow.