Reporting incidents of gender-based violence (GBV) to the University

Updated on: 5 March 2026

Clear guidance on what gender-based violence is, how it can appear in different forms, and what you can do if you experience or witness it. The University is committed to maintaining a respectful and inclusive environment where everyone feels safe and valued. Gender-based violence of any kind is unacceptable.

If you or someone else is in immediate danger

Call the emergency services on 999 (dial 9999 from a University extension) if you or someone else is in physical danger or needs urgent medical help.

After contacting the emergency services, you can also contact the University Security and Response Team on:

+44 (0)1334 46 8999 (dial 8999 from a University extension)

Further support is available:

Staff: see this guide and the Dignity and Respect at Work policy (PDF)
Students: visit the sexual misconduct - advice and guidance for students
Everyone:

Introduction

The University maintains a zero-tolerance approach to unwanted behaviour, including gender-based violence, bullying, harassment, sexual harassment and victimisation.

Gender-based violence is a serious issue across society and within higher education globally. The University is committed to fostering a safe and supportive environment for work and study and supports the work of the Scottish Government to eradicate GBV.

Concerns raised will be taken seriously and addressed in accordance with the University’s procedures.

What is gender-based violence

The University has adopted the definition of gender-based violence (GBV).

GBV refers to violence or abuse that is rooted in gender inequality and unequal power relations.

GBV can take many forms, including physical, sexual and psychological harm.

GBV can affect anyone. However, it disproportionately affects women and girls. People of all genders, including men, non-binary and gender diverse individuals, may also experience gender-based violence.

We recognise that experiences of GBV may also be shaped by other aspects of identity such as race, disability, sexual orientation, religion or age. This is sometimes referred to as an intersectional approach.

Examples of GBV

GBV can take many forms, including (but not limited to):

domestic or relationship abuse, including coercive control
sexual assault or rape
sexual harassment
stalking
sharing or threatening to share intimate images without consent

Examples within a university community may include:

engaging in sexual activity without consent
threatening or intimidating behaviour
sharing intimate images of another person without their consent
repeatedly following or contacting someone without good reason
behaviour that is intimidating, hostile, degrading, humiliating or coercive

These examples are not exhaustive.

Reporting incidents of GBV to the University

We understand that it can take courage to disclose experiences of gender-based violence.

If you choose to report an incident, you can expect to be treated with dignity, respect and sensitivity.

Staff involved in responding to GBV disclosures are trained professionals who can provide appropriate support and guidance. They will listen without judgement and help you understand the options available to you. The University will support you in whatever course of action you choose.

Ways to report an incident

If you have experienced GBV, you may wish to report the incident, particularly if the person responsible is connected to the University (for example, a staff member or student).

You can report an incident by:

using (openly or anonymously)
contacting HR confidential (Director of HR)
speaking to a trusted member of staff

If you choose to tell someone who is not an HR colleague, their role is to listen without judgement and help connect you with the appropriate support services.

What happens after you report

After reporting an incident, you will be able to discuss your options. These may include:

Support

You may wish to access support from the EAP service or other wellbeing support, through Occupational Health or .

Formal action

If the person responsible is a member of staff or a student, you may wish to raise a formal complaint through the University’s procedures.

Anonymous reporting - Reports can be made anonymously through . However, if the person responsible is not identified, the action the University can take may be limited.

Adjustments to your work

You may not wish to take formal action but may require adjustments to your working arrangements.

Reporting to the Police

Some forms of GBV may be criminal offences. If you wish, the University can support you in reporting the matter to the Police.

If a Police investigation is underway, the University may delay its own investigation to avoid interfering with legal processes. However, steps may still be taken where necessary to protect the safety of individuals.

Further information

Additional support available includes:

Safe leave
Employees who are victims of GBV may take up to 10 days of paid safe leave to make arrangements for their safety or wellbeing. See the Special Leave guidance for more information.

Training

You must complete your mandatory training which includes the following modules:

Sexual harassment in the workplace
Diversity in the workplace

Staff are also encouraged to complete the recommended training as confirmed here.

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