Harassment and sexual misconduct
The University of Oxford is committed to fostering an environment in which all members of the University community can thrive, and where students and staff treat one another with respect, courtesy and consideration. Harassment and sexual misconduct are not tolerated.
If you have experienced or witnessed behaviour that concerns you, are supporting someone affected by it, or have had an allegation made against you, advice and support are available.
You do not need to make a formal report in order to access support.
The University's Supporting Students at Oxford: preventing and responding to harassment and sexual misconduct webpage provides comprehensive information for students, including definitions, support and reporting options, relevant procedures and University policies.
Confidential advice about harassment or bullying
You can speak to a Harassment Advisor if you have experienced or witnessed behaviour that concerns you, or if an allegation of harassment or bullying has been made against you.
Harassment Advisors provide confidential, impartial guidance. They can listen to your concerns, explain relevant University policies and procedures, help you understand your options, and signpost you to other sources of support.
Speaking to a Harassment Advisor does not start a formal process or commit you to taking any particular action.
Harassment Advisors do not decide whether behaviour constitutes harassment or bullying, initiate disciplinary or other formal procedures, provide legal advice, act as advocates or representatives, or provide ongoing welfare support.
Faculty Harassment Advisors
The Faculty's Harassment Advisors are:
You may contact any of the Faculty's Harassment Advisors. You do not have to approach a particular Advisor because of your course, status or the identity of the person about whom you have concerns.
You can also speak to a Harassment Advisor elsewhere in the University. Current students and staff can use the University's SSO-accessible directory to find an Advisor. For further information, see the University Harassment Advisor Network.
Sexual harassment, sexual violence and relationship abuse
The University's Sexual Harassment and Violence Support Service provides free and confidential specialist support to any student affected by sexual harassment or violence, domestic or relationship abuse, coercive control or stalking, at any point in their life.
Reporting harassment or sexual misconduct
Seeking advice or support does not mean that you are making a formal report. If you are considering reporting something, the procedure that applies will depend on the circumstances and whether the matter falls within University or college procedures.
The University's Supporting Students at Oxford page explains your options, how to make a report, the procedures that may apply, and the support available. You can seek confidential advice before deciding what to do.
If an allegation has been made against you, confidential advice and support are also available; see Supporting Students at Oxford. Oxford SU Advice can also provide independent advice to students.
Training
Students starting a course at Oxford are required to complete the University's online Harassment and Sexual Misconduct training. Continuing students are also encouraged to complete the training regularly.
Further information
For comprehensive information about harassment and sexual misconduct, including definitions, support, reporting, University and college procedures, confidentiality, and freedom of speech and academic freedom, see: Supporting Students at Oxford: preventing and responding to harassment and sexual misconduct.
