Remember: bullying or harassment are never okay. Whether you’ve been directly affected or are supporting someone else, please speak up and seek help. You are not alone—support is available.
Think
- Immediate danger: If you or someone else is in immediate danger or seriously injured, call 999 (or 112 from a mobile phone).
- Find a safe space: If an incident has just happened, try to move yourself or the other person to a place where you/they feel safe.
- Understand what’s happening: It may help to clarify what is meant by bullying or harassment and how these behaviours are defined.
Talk
- Speak with someone you trust: A friend, family member, colleague, or staff member can be a good starting point for sharing concerns.
- Active listening: If you’re supporting someone else, listening without judgment can be incredibly helpful. You could use active listening techniques (eg, focusing on what they’re saying and asking gentle, clarifying questions).
- USW Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) Team: The University's EDI Team is happy to talk you through the University's procedures, how to make a complaint and what support is available - in confidence. Email: equality@southwales.ac.uk.
Report
- Report and Support: Both students and staff can use the University’s Report and Support system. You can choose to do this anonymously or with your contact details. If you provide your contact details, a staff member will reach out confidentially to discuss options and further support.
Support
- Students can use our Mental Wellbeing Service which offers a range of help and support. You can book an appointment with a Wellbeing Adviser who can talk you through the support available.
- Staff can access support via the Staff Support Scheme, your manager or HR via HR Business Partner hrbusinesspartner@southwales.ac.uk. Staff may also contact relevant Trade Unions (UCU, Unison, GMB) for support.
- Staff and Students can reach out to the University's EDI Team via equality@southwales.ac.uk; or to Dignity at Work and Study Advisors
- External Support: There are a number of external specialist organisations that provide specialist support, including counselling. A list of organisations can be found here.