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What if I'm accused?

It can be distressing to be accused of bullying, harassment, a hate crime or sexual misconduct.

It is important for you to know that the university will not make assumptions. No party will be considered ‘at fault’ until a report has been investigated by the Student Conduct team.  All those involved in a report will be treated fairly and will be able to access independent support.

When investigating a report, the Student Conduct Team will refer to the Student Disciplinary Procedure It is important that you read through this thoroughly, so you understand the processes that are going to be followed and what will be expected of you.

If the report does not relate directly to conduct, the Student Complaints Procedure will be followed. 

This is a good time for you to reflect about the other person's perception of your behaviour by familiarising yourself with the definitions of bullying, harassment, hate crimes and sexual misconduct. 

 

If a formal report is made about you regarding your conduct, an investigation will take place by the Student Conduct Team. Depending on whether the report relates to a misdemeanour, misconduct or gross misconduct will determine the procedures that follow. It is important to read the Student Disciplinary Procedure so that you are informed on examples of misdemeanour, misconduct or gross misconduct, the steps that will follow after a report has been made against you, how/if you can appeal any decisions or outcomes and what sanctions may be implemented as a result of the investigation. 

You can email conduct@stmarys.ac.uk with any questions or concerns you may have relating to the processes and procedure.

 

  • Students accused of an offence should be aware that sanctions may be imposed, including a temporary suspension from the University until the investigation has been concluded (this is depending on what the report is about)
  • Where there are criminal proceedings, the University may defer any disciplinary proceedings or actions until any police investigation has been concluded in order to preserve the integrity and primacy of the Police investigation. Following conclusion of any Police investigation, however the University may consider whether any misconduct may have taken place
  • You should be aware that with regards to any information that you choose to volunteer, confidentiality cannot be guaranteed as the Crown authorities could require this to be produced as evidence in the case of a criminal investigation.
  • You may wish to seek advice and support to understand the context of the report made against you. Speak to someone you trust (a close friend, close work colleague, a lecturer or personal tutor) and discuss the report. If you have specific questions relating to the report, you can contact the Student Conduct team by emailing conduct@stmarys.ac.uk
  • You can also seek support through the university. Visit our support page to find out what internal support is available. It is important to note that you can approach any member of staff about this, however if they have any involvement in the original case or have supported the person who made the report, they will have to signpost you to another member of staff who is unrelated. 
  • Further information is available in the Student Disciplinary Procedure and the University Bullying and Harassment Guidance.