This webpage is the ‘single comprehensive source of information’ required by the Office for Students (of registration condition E6).
University Centre Sparsholt is dedicated to providing an inclusive and safe environment for all students.
All reports of sexual misconduct are taken seriously. This page is here for all students who have been affected by sexual assault, sexual misconduct and rape with outlined resources for support, reporting options.
We believe that all sexual violence, harassment, domestic abuse, hate, stalking, discrimination, bullying and other forms of harmful behaviours are never acceptable. Any person can be affected by sexual violence in any form, and anyone can be affected regardless of gender, age and sexuality.
Taking the first step when asking for support can be difficult which is why we want to provide you with all the information you need to know on seeking support and reporting.
Defining Harassment and Sexual Misconduct
Harassment is defined under the Equality Act 2010 as unwanted behaviour, which is offensive, intimidating, humiliating, and/or threatening which creates a hostile and uncomfortable environment for the person on the receiving end. This can occur in person, writing, online, or over the phone. These instances can happen repeatedly or on one-off basis.
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- Verbal – Name-Calling, Offensive Jokes, Threats
- Physical – Unwanted touching, Assault
- Psychological – Bullying, Coercion, Intimidation
- Sexual – Unwanted Sexual Advances or Comments
- Discriminatory – Based on Race, Gender, Disability, Religion, or Sexual Orientation
Sexual Misconduct relates to all unwanted conduct of a sexual nature. This includes, but is not limited to:
Abuse of Power or Authority in a Sexual Context which relates to all unwanted conduct of a sexual nature. This includes, but is not limited to: Sexual Harassment as defined by Section 26(2) Equality Act 2010.
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- Sexual harassment as defined by Section 26(2) Equality Act 2010.
- Assault as defined by the Sexual Offences Act 2003.
- Rape as defined by Sexual Offences Act 2003.
- Physical unwanted sexual advances as set out by the Equality and Human Rights Commission: Sexual harassment and the law, 2017
- Intimidation or promising resources or benefits in return for sexual favours as set out by the Equality and Human Rights Commission: Sexual Harassment and the law, 2017
- Distributing private and personal explicit images or video footage of an individual as set out by the Equality and Human Rights Commission: Sexual Harassment and the law, 2017
Reporting Harassment and Sexual Misconduct
Sparsholt College group provides forms though which students and staff can use to disclose bullying, discrimination, harassment, hate crime and sexual misconduct. We have attached links to outside sources if you feel more comfortable sharing your story with someone outside of Sparsholt.
You can disclose anonymously through our report forms, however our ability to investigate and support you might be compromised.
Alternatively, you can choose to disclose your identity when you report.
In all cases, we will endeavour to respect your privacy at all times.
Reporting outside of Sparsholt
Available Support
If you have experienced any form of sexual assault, sexual harassment or rape, it is not your fault. This can happen to anyone at any time regardless of age, sexuality, and gender identity. We are committed to ensuring everyone at UCS feels safe.
Everybody reacts differently to situations, which is why we want to ensure there are different ways of responding so that you can pick which ever one is most comfortable for you.
The Wellbeing Hub is an open and calm space for anyone looking to take a step away from the busy campus around them. There are private rooms, where students are able to have confidential conversations with members of our Support teams should they wish. Our nurse is also located at the Support Hub, and has a private treatment room for anyone who may need these services.
Services outside of Sparsholt
Useful links