If you think someone you know is experiencing discrimination, there are lots of ways in which you can help them.
Discrimination is unlawful under the Equality Act 2010 and is contrary to the University Dignity at Work and Study Policy. Understanding the characteristics of discrimination 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.
Discrimination occurs when an individual or a group of people are treated less favourably than others based on a protected characteristic such as age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership (in employment), pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief (including lack of belief), sex or gender, sexual orientation.
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.
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.
Published on Oct 4, 2015 Based on the Samaritans guidelines for active listening
- Give options. When they have finished talking ask them if they are okay to talk through some possible options and next steps.
- Speak to an Advisor. An advisor can talk through the University's procedures, how to make a complaint and what support is available, in confidence. Advisors can talk to someone who is experiencing something, or someone who is supporting that person. They are available in Student Advice (for students) and Human Resources (for staff).
Report
- Report and Support. Students and staff can report an incident using the University’s Report and Support system. They can choose to do this anonymously or you can request support from an advisor. 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 complaint 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 someone has been discriminated against
- 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 Counselling Service offers confidential help and is open to students.