Never OK: How to report sexual harassment or violence and the support available

Content warning: This article includes reference to sexual harassment and violence and may be triggering to some readers.

At The University of Manchester, we’re committed to promoting an environment and culture where sexual harassment or violence is never tolerated.

Sexual harassment is any kind of unwanted behaviour with either explicit or implicit sexual overtones that makes you feel humiliated or intimidated, or that creates a hostile environment. All forms of sexual harassment are unacceptable and will not be tolerated. 

How do I report an incident? 

Report + Support

Students and staff can report an incident using the University’s Report and Support system. Unless you are in immediate danger or are reporting an emergency to the police, we encourage you to do this as your first action in the reporting process so that we can most effectively support you and guide you through your next steps. You can choose to do this anonymously or you can request support from an advisor. If you choose to talk to an advisor, they will be able to talk through the options and support available to you, in confidence.

The Report + Support webpage also has additional information available:

When I make a report, what happens next?

All student reports come through to the Advice and Response Service.

The Advice and Response Service provide holistic, trauma-informed support to students who have experienced any form of gender-based violence, harassment or hate.  The team is made up of specialist caseworkers who provide confidential, practical, and emotional support to students. 

An Advice and Response caseworker will respond to your report within two working days. 

Monthly drop-ins

The Students’ Union and University of Manchester have partnered with Trafford Rape Crisis & the We Are Survivors to offer a monthly drop-in for people seeking information, advice and support about any form of sexual violence, harassment, abuse or rape. This is open to anyone, whether you’ve experienced something yourself, either recently or in the past or if you’re worried about someone else.

Semester One:
Thursday 4th December 12pm-2pm
 
Semester Two:
Thursday 5th February 12pm-2pm
Thursday 5th March 12pm-2pm
Thursday 2nd April 12pm-2pm
Thursday 7th May 12pm-2pm

The drop-in will take place inside the Students’ Union Advice Service – find out more.

You can find out more about our Never OK campaign — including what we’ve done so far and additional support and resources.

Reporting to the police

If sexual harassment escalates into violence, threats or sexual assault, you can report this to the police by calling 101 or contacting your local police force. If you or someone you’re with is in immediate danger, or it is a time-sensitive emergency, call the police on 999.