If you think someone you know is being bullied there are lots of ways in which you can help them.
Bullying is contrary to the Equality Act 2010 and the University’s Bullying and Harassment Policy. Understanding the behaviours associated with bullying 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.
Bullying is offensive, intimidating, malicious or insulting behaviour involving the misuse of power that can make a person feel vulnerable, upset, humiliated, undermined or threatened.
Think
- Are they in immediate danger? If they are in immediate danger or seriously injured, you can call 999 (or 112 from a mobile).
- Find a safe space. If an incident has just happened, try and find somewhere they feel safe.
- What is bullying? It might be useful to think about what bullying is and how some of the behaviours are described.
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.
Report
- Report and Support. Students and staff can report an incident using the University’s Report and Support platform. They can choose to do this anonymously or you can request support from an advisor and report the incident leaving your contact details. 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 they choose to make a formal report to the University against a student or a member of staff, there are procedures which set out the steps you'll need to follow.
Get Support
- Find out what support is available if you think you have been bullied.
Mental Health and Wellbeing
1 in 4 people is affected by a mental health problem in any year and it is estimated that around 1 in 5 people has contemplated suicide or self-harm.
- If you are worried or concerned, find out more about how you can help them.
- 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 external counselling service offers confidential help and is open to both students and staff. Contact Student Support and Development for more information.