Student harassment and sexual misconduct

Harassment is defined in the University’s policy for Discrimination, Bullying and Harassment.

Harassment is unwanted behaviour or conduct which has the purpose or effect of violating a person’s dignity or creating an intimidating, hostile, degrading, humiliating or offensive environment because of, or connected to one or more protected characteristics. Protected characteristics under the Equality Act 2010 include: age, disability, gender reassignment, pregnancy or maternity, race, religion or belief, marriage and civil partnership, sex or sexual orientation. Harassment may occur physically, verbally or non-verbally, and it can be intentional or unintentional. It also includes treating someone less favourably because they have submitted or refused to submit to such behaviour in the past.

Further information, support and guidance can be found on our Report & Support pages.

Sexual Misconduct is defined in the University policy for Sexual Misconduct.

Sexual Misconduct

Sexual misconduct is unwanted conduct of a sexual nature. It can include: sexual harassment; unwanted conduct which creates an intimidating, hostile, degrading, humiliating, or offensive environment; sexual assault; rape; physical unwanted sexual advances; intimidation or promising resources or benefits in return for sexual favours; distributing private and explicit images or video footage of an individual without their consent. 

Sexual assault

Sexual assault is a criminal offence. A person commits sexual assault if they intentionally touch another person, the touching is sexual and the person does not consent.  It involves all unwanted physical contact of a sexual nature and ranges from pinching, embracing, groping and kissing, to rape and sexual assault which involves penetration without consent.  

Sexual harassment

Sexual harassment is unwanted, this can be unwelcome words, conduct, or behaviour of a sexual nature that has the purpose or effect of creating an intimidating, embarrassing, hostile, degrading, humiliating or offensive environment for the recipient. It is a misuse of personal or institutional power and often based on a person’s gender although it is rarely about sexual desire. Sexual harassment can range from behaviour that stems from obvious to anyone or subtler behaviour less obvious to either the person responsible for the behaviour or to the recipient. Often the impact is not felt or witnessed immediately. The impact may go beyond the recipient to people who see or hear what happens or who try to offer support.

Sexual harassment can include but is not limited to: catcalling, following, making unnecessary and unwanted physical contact, sexual jokes and comments, giving unwelcome personal gifts, wolf-whistling, leering, derogatory comments, unwelcome comments about a person’s body or clothing, unwelcome questions about a person’s sex life and/or sexuality, engaging in unwelcome sexual propositions, invitations and flirtation, making somebody feel uncomfortable through displaying or sharing sexual material.

Further information, support and guidance can be found on our Report & Support pages.

Reporting incidents or information on Harassment or Sexual Misconduct

The Report & Support portal provides a safe and confidential space to disclose any information or incidents of harassment or sexual misconduct. The option to report anonymously is available. The portal provides you with the opportunity to speak with a SVLO (this is available through the anonymous reporting option also) the information disclosed, further escalation options and support options.

The University recognises that everyone that has been impacted by harassment or sexual misconduct may require support whether they are the reporting party, facing allegations or the witness to an incident. All parties will be provided with a named trained staff member who can help them to navigate the process and provide support and guidance throughout.

Student Support

The Student Support team at Northeastern University London offers a wide range of services to assist students in achieving their academic goals while addressing any personal challenges.

The team provide confidential, non-judgmental support to help students manage issues and complex situations while studying. The team is comprised of Student Wellbeing Advisors and Mental Health Advisors.

You can contact a member of the team at: studentsupport@nulondon.ac.uk

Concerns regarding safeguarding matters can be made to the Designated Safeguarding Lead at safeguarding@nulondon.ac.uk

Sexual Violence Liaison Officers (SVLO)

Northeastern University London has trained Sexual Violence Liaison Officers (SVLOs). These officers are available to listen to and support students who have experienced sexual violence, whether the incident is recent or occurred in the past.

SVLOs provide compassionate, non-judgmental support, allowing you to share as much or as little as you feel comfortable with, at your own pace. They can guide you through the next steps, whether that involves accessing internal or external support services or discussing reporting options.

SVLOs may provide support plans and risk assessments providing individualised and on-going tailored support using a trauma informed approach.

To make an appointment with an SVLO, contact: svlo@nulondon.ac.uk.

Student Regulatory Resolution Office (SRRO)

SRRO is the University’s dedicated office for facilitating the student discipline process. They are trained and dedicated personnel who undertake investigations into student behavioural concerns at the University.

You can contact this service directly should you wish to submit a report.Full details of the student discipline process is located here or by emailing student.discipline@nulondon.ac.uk

Human Resources at Northeastern University London

The Human Resources (HR) department at Northeastern University London supports staff members in addressing misconduct through both informal resolutions and formal procedures. HR can only address incidents involving staff members, not students.

HR also provide assistance with recruitment, training and development, retention, and University policies and procedures.

Report and Support

Northeastern University London offers a safe and confidential space where students and staff can report incidents of harassment, sexual misconduct, bullying and other forms of unacceptable behaviour; either anonymously or with their contact details.

All reports are followed up by a relevant staff member. Submitting a report does not automatically trigger formal action, but you will be offered support and guidance on how to proceed if you wish to make a formal case.

We recognise the value that specialist organisations provide for those affected by unacceptable behaviour, violence and harassment. Please find a list of national services below that you, or someone you are close to, may wish to access

• The Havens specialist support for people who have been raped or sexually assaulted. For urgent advice and appointments, please call 020 3299 6900.
• Survivors UK offer information, support and counselling for men and boys who have been raped or sexually abused. 
• Citizens Advice provides some information if you’re being bullied or harassed at work
• Samaritans provide emotional support to anyone in emotional distress, struggling to cope, or at risk of suicide throughout the United Kingdom and Ireland. Call 116 123, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
• Solace provides advice and support for women for domestic abuse and sexual violence. 
• Galop is a charity that supports lesbian, gay, bi, trans and queer people affected by sexual and domestic violence. 
• Changing Faces is the UK’s leading charity for everyone with a scar, mark or condition on their face or body that makes them look different.
• Mencap is the leading voice of learning disability.
• Mermaids have been helping gender-diverse kids, young people and their families since 1995
• Deaf Plus offer a wide range of services to our clients to develop their potential and promote independence and wellbeing.
• Community Security Trust, a charity that protects British Jews from antisemitism and related threats.
• Tell Mama measure anti-Muslim hate crimes and harassment
• Stop Hate UK offer support to victims of hate crime

Samaritans –  Samaritans provides emotional support to anyone in emotional distress, struggling to cope, or at risk of suicide. Their phone line is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. The number to call is 116 123.

The Listening Place – The Listening Place is a charity for anyone who, for whatever reason feels life is no longer worth living, can find a place with a warm and open listener who will give them time. The charity offers ongoing, face-to-face listening appointments and can make a real difference to the lives of many people who are feeling suicidal. Call on 020 3906 7676 9am – 9pm, 7 days a week.

Safe Connections

Uwill– Immediate teletherapy appointments and crisis conversations complemented by wellness programming available to students at no cost.

These services are for anyone who is feeling at risk of suicide and needs to access support, as well as for people who have an interest in trying to help prevent suicide. These services are delivered together as Safe Connections by our partners and are in addition to existing crisis lines and local mental health support services (see tabs on the left).There are five elements:

1. Safe Connections App: providing a safe, quick and efficient way for local residents to access vital support information, downloadable via QR code or hyperlink.
2. Community hub: supporting local people who are experiencing suicidal thoughts to access the right service at the right time. You can find more information on – https://www.mindthnr.org.uk/
3. Community protectors: training local residents to support their communities and offer near-by support for people feeling suicidal.
4. Bereavement: offering specialist support for those bereaved following a suicide. For more info, contact supportforsuicideloss@mindchwf.org.uk or 0208 525 2337.
5. Training for professionals: delivering a tailored programme for health and care professionals to help them provide timely suicide interventions

Safe Connections are being provided by a range of partners working collaboratively across north east London, including: Mind, Res Consortium, CPEN Tower Hamlets East London Foundation Trust, North East London Foundation Trust, and NEL CCG.

The services are accessible for people over the age of 18 years living in the following areas in north east London: City and Hackney; Newham, Tower Hamlets, Waltham Forest, Barking and Dagenham, Havering and Redbridge.

Anyone outside of these criteria who tries to access the services will be directed to their relevant services as appropriate.

Mind – Mind in Tower Hamlets, Newham and Redbridge delivers high quality mental health and emotional support, talking therapies, advocacy and employment support. We are inclusive and committed to meeting the diverse needs of our community and campaigning to eradicate stigma, discrimination and inequality.

Switchboard – Switchboard is a national LGBTQIA+ support line for anyone in the country. It offers support relating to sexual and gender identity. Call on 0800 0119 100 10am to 10pm every day or Email on hello@switchboard.lgbt

Orri – Orri is a specialist eating disorder clinic offering intensive day treatment and services in person and online. Orri is a privately funded organisation. To find out more about referrals and the assessment process, find out more by getting in touch with the team on 0203 918 6340.

Papyrus – If you are having thoughts of suicide or are concerned for a young person who might be, you can contact HOPELINE247 for confidential support and practical advice.

● Call: 0800 068 4141● Text: 07860039967● Email: pat@papyrus-uk.org

Opening hours: Lines are open 24 hours every day of the year (Weekends and Bank Holidays included) Their Suicide prevention advisers are ready to support you

The National Bullying Helpline – The National Bullying Helpline is a charity run by volunteers, offering advice and support. It is open from 9am – 5pm Monday to Friday. 

Contact details; Freephone – 0300 323 0169 Telephone – 0845 225 5787

Email help@nationalbullyinghelpline.co.uk

Anti-Bullying Alliance – Offers advice and support about bullying for parents/ carers, young people and those working with young people.

Act Against Bullying Offers information and resources on anti-bullying.

See website for further details and available resources – https://actagainstbullying.org/

The University provides guidance on how we investigate any allegations of student harassment or sexual misconduct by the following policies:

• Disciplinary Procedures for Students

This procedure sets out expectations for student behaviour. It also establishes a framework for how the University will receive, consider, and respond when a concern regarding student behaviour (non-academic) arises.

• Complaints Procedure for Students Policy

This procedure provides dedicated framework for student complaints to be received, considered and responded.  The views of students are important. The University encourages any student to contact the University to discuss their views and experiences as they arise. This Procedure provides clarity on how a student can communicate with the University regarding eligible matters of concern during the course of their student journey.

• The Northeastern University Non-Fraternization Policy applies to NU London as if it were a policy of Northeastern University London. The policy establishes clear boundaries to protect students and staff, while preventing conflict of interest, favouritism, exploitation, harassment or breaches of professional standards.
  
  

The University provides the following policies and procedures for staff and how we may investigate allegations of harassment or sexual misconduct.

Respect for the Rights and Dignity of Others Policy (157.6kB)

The Respect for the Rights and Dignity of Others Policy outlines the principals by which NU London aims to create a safe, respectful, and welcoming space for all of our students and employees.

Staff Code of Conduct (178.9kB)

The Staff Code of Conduct provides NU London’s values that anyone working for or representing the University must follow. This encompasses both ethical and legal standards.

Disciplinary Policy for Staff (223.6kB)

The Disciplinary Policy provides a framework used to foster good conduct amongst employees at Northeastern University London.

The University is committed to ensuring confidentiality in creating a safe environment.  The University will take all reasonable steps to protect the confidentiality and privacy of those impacted by harassment or sexual misconduct.  However there may be circumstances when we are required to share information with other agencies or internally.  Further details can be found here.

• Student Confidentiality Statement

This statement provides guidance to students on how and when they disclose information to the University and what the student can expect once a disclosure has been made.  The University has a duty of care to protect its students and staff from harm, as far as is practicable and foreseeable.  This duty of care extends to directing those in need to support to relevant support services and encouraging them to take up the support available.

• Privacy Notice for Students, Applicants and Alumni

This privacy notice applies to registered students, learners, former students, alumni and applicants in any of the educational programmes or services at the University. It explains how the University processes your personal data.

In line with our Disciplinary Procedures for Students, the University will make a data protection assessment, will inform the Reporting Party that an outcome has been decided, and communicate as much information as is considered necessary to reassure them that the University has acted proportionately, fairly, and with due regard for their wellbeing.

The University is committed to ensuring that students understand what harassment and sexual misconduct is, how to report it, what support is available to them; internal and external. Further we want students to understand consent, healthy relationships and active bystander behaviours.

All students are required to complete an annual online course on Consent Matters which includes what consent means in normal, everyday situations before exploring why it is important to have sexual consent. It also empowers students to apply the principle of affirmative consent to both ‘real life’ and online situations. It covers communications skills in relationships; sexual and more general and it covers how to intervene when you see behaviours that makes you feel uncomfortable, such as verbal, physical or sexual harrasment.

In September, all students are required to attend in-person sessions on Respect in Action: Preventing Harassment & Sexual Misconduct. New incoming undergraduate students will receive the training in Welcome Week. This training covers definitions of harassment and sexual misconduct, what does good behaviour look like and what constitutes harassment or sexual misconduct. This is an interactive session where you will be able to ask questions and engage in healthy discussions with the trainers and peers.

During the academic year, our SVLO team will run campaigns to promote awareness and further develop students understanding of harassment and sexual misconduct and how to apply this knowledge to different situations.

Sexual Violence Liaison Officers (SVLO) are professionally trained on supporting those impacted by harassment and sexual misconduct in a trauma informed approach. The training provides them with the toolkit to deliver an effective response to disclosures of sexual violence, identifying needs and managing risk. It further facilitates to appropriate support, including the involvement of the criminal justice process.

Mandatory online training is provided for all staff on Understanding Condition E6, starting from 1st August 2025. It will be an annual requirement for staff to complete the training.

All staff are required to attend training on Mandatory Reporting. All staff are obliged to report any information or disclosures of sexual misconduct to the University using the Report & Support pages. Training includes how to intervene as a first responder, and how to declare our obligations under Mandatory Reporting.

The University is committed to protecting students from any actual or potential conflict of interest and/or abuse of power that may arise from intimate personal relationships with staff.  Our policy bans all relationships for students on undergraduate programmes. The policy on non-fraternisation can be found here: The Northeastern University Non-Fraternization Policy.

In line with the Office for Students, Northeastern University London does not use non-disclosure agreements in cases involving allegations of harassment and sexual misconduct.