Creating a safe and respectful campus: New Worker Act in effect
We’re committed to ensuring BU is a safe, inclusive, and respectful place for everyone. The new Worker Protection (Amendment of Equality Act 2010) Act strengthens protections against sexual harassment across all workplaces, including here at BU. Here’s what this means for you as a valued part of our community.
If you wish to report an incident of sexual harassment, you can do so using the 'Report' tool which you can find on our website.
What does this mean for you?
At BU, we have zero tolerance towards any form of discrimination and are fully committed to fostering an environment where everyone feels safe, respected, and supported.
Commitment to Respectful Conduct - we are committed to developing an inclusive environment, where all who study and work at BU are treated with dignity and respect and are given the opportunity to achieve their potential and we expect all students and staff to behave in a manner that supports this.
As outlined in the Student Agreement - bullying, harassment or victimisation of any sort, including through social media, will not be tolerated and allegations of this nature will be considered under the Student Disciplinary Procedure. Let’s work together to make BU a place where respect and inclusivity are at the core of everything we do.
Our commitment to a safe environment
We have a zero-tolerance policy towards any form of discrimination, bullying, harassment, or victimisation. This includes all forms of sexual harassment, misconduct, violence, and abuse.
Harassment can occur in various settings, including face-to-face, online, over the phone, or in written communications.
These behaviours take many forms, from inappropriate comments or jokes to unwanted physical advances or sharing explicit content.
It doesn’t have to be directed at you personally; witnessing harassment is also grounds for action.
Reporting and support
If you wish to report an incident of sexual harassment, you can do so using the Report tool which you can find on our website.
We understand the emotional impact these incidents can have, and we offer a range of support services and confidential resources to help you navigate these challenges:
If you need immediate medical help or attention call 999 or 01202 962222 if you're on campus
Student Assistance Programme (SAP): Provides free, confidential guidance, advice and support with a qualified advisor/Counsellor covering all aspects of personal and uni life- 24 hours a day, 365 days a year
Faith and Reflection Team: Offers spiritual and emotional support, regardless of your faith or beliefs
Contact Achieve@BU who can connect you with other teams across BU, or point you in the right direction.
Visit The Retreat - open for face-to-face and virtual drop-ins from 4.30pm - 11.30pm every day
For mental health support via text message, text 'STUDENT' to 85258
Steps 2 Wellbeing (for anxiety, depression, stress, mental health and wellbeing)
NHS 111 (the non-emergency number to contact the NHS)
Police 101 (the non-emergency number to contact the police if it is less urgent than a 999 call)
