University Policy (School Policy)

 All members of the University community are required to treat all students, staff and external customers in a friendly, courteous and dignified manner.  

All unacceptable behaviours are outlined in the SOAS Code of Conduct.

Bullying, Harassment, Sexual Harassment and Discrimination

Bullying, harassment, sexual harassment, discrimination and victimisation are contrary to the Equality Act 2010 and the values of the University as set out in the Respect@SOAS Policy The SOAS Students’ Union takes a zero tolerate stance on any form of discrimination, harassment or bullying within its environment, which is outlined in their SOAS Students’ Union Dignity Policy

All staff and students have a right to complain in confidence if they believe that they are being harassed whilst working or studying.  No member of the University community is expected to tolerate what they genuinely and reasonably believe to be bullying, harassment, sexual harassment or victimisation, whether by a member of the University community or a third party such as a supplier or visitor to the University.

Our Enough is Enough campaign makes it clear that we take a zero tolerance approach to bullying, harassment, sexual harassment, discrimination or victimisation, by any members of its community. 

Formal Procedures

The intention of the Respect@SOAS Policy is to offer an informal process to any person who experiences discrimination, bullying or harassment. However, where an informal approach does not resolve the issue, or where a case is deemed by the complainant as too serious to be resolved informally, the following SOAS procedures can be followed:

The Students Union have their own disciplinary and complaints procedures, separate from the University.

Sexual Assault

SOAS is committed to providing an environment that is free from any form of gender based violence, abuse or harassment. We recognise that gender based violence is a problem that affects all of society, including the higher education sector, and we are committed to being at the forefront of the campaign to address this. Our ultimate aim is to promote safer campuses for all. The ‘Preventing and responding to gender based violence' guidance outlines initiatives intended to reduce the likelihood of incidents occurring on campus by raising awareness amongst students and staff. It also sets out practical steps for the victims of gender based violence and those people supporting them.

The University’s Respect@SOAS includes unwanted physical conduct including more serious forms of sexual assault in its examples of harassment.  If a student or member of staff wishes to make a complaint involving serious sexual assault they are not required to follow the standard procedure for this policy.  In this instance they can contact Human Resources directly or follow one the formal procedures.

The Havens’ Sexual Assault Referral Centres (SARCs) and Rape Crisis all have Independent Sexual Violence Advisors (ISVA’s) who are trained to look after the needs of a survivor of rape or sexual violence to ensure they receive the best possible care and understanding. Contact them and ask to speak to an advisor in confidence. ISVA's are there to provide information to ensure an individual can make a decision that is right for them.

A-Z of Policies and Procedures

Support 

The following links provide further information on the support that's available for students and staff, whether something has happened to you or someone you know. 

Enough is Enough