If you think someone you know has experienced LGBTQ+ discrimination, harassment or abuse, there are lots of ways in which you can support them.
Think
- Are they in immediate danger? If they are in immediate danger or seriously injured, you can call 999 (or 112 from a mobile).
- Find a safe space. If an incident has just happened, try and find somewhere they feel safe.
- It may be helpful to understand what LGBTQ+ discrimination is and how it may affect someone.
Talk
- Listen. Just taking the time to listen to someone and talk about what has happened can help.
- Give options. When they have finished talking, ask them if they would like to discuss possible options and next steps.
- An advisor can talk through the University's procedures, how to make a complaint and what support is available, in confidence.
Report
- Report and Support. Students and staff can report an incident using the University's Report and Support system. Reports can be submitted anonymously.
- University Procedure. If they choose to make a formal complaint against a student or member of staff, there are procedures which set out the steps that will need to be followed.
What can you do?
If someone you know has been affected, you can encourage them to seek support. Alternatively, you can make an anonymous disclosure which will allow us to identify concerns and investigate where there may be multiple reports relating to the same issue or area.