Pathways

Student Complaints and Grievance Procedure

If an allegation relates to a student, the University will initiate the Student Conduct and Discipline procedure. The Student Conduct and Discipline rules sets out the types of behaviours against which the University can take action. 

Sanctions

If, following an investigation, the allegation is proven true on the balance of probabilities, then the University will impose a sanction of 0 to 4 points, ranging from a formal warning, restrictions/ conditions, a written apology, suspension and expulsion.

Any sanction must be deemed appropriate and proportionate and in line with what is set out in the Student and Conduct and Discipline rules. Only will a matter warrant a sanction where there is sufficient and appropriate evidence.

Measures taken during an investigation

Whilst an investigation is being carried out, the University can take a number of immediate actions to ensure your safety, to help you feel comfortable on campus, and to minimise the impact on your academic studies and university life. These actions include:

• Suspending the student - suspension is temporary removal from the University, pending an investigation.
  student - suspension is temporary removal from the University, pending an investigation.
  
• Imposing precautionary measures – such as forbidding the student from entering a certain building on campus or restricting their access to specified days or times.
  
• Academic support – we can support your application for a deferral or extenuating circumstances without you having to disclose what has happened to you.
  

Fair processes

The University is legally obliged to follow due process and provide all parties, including any accused student, with a fair hearing before an impartial decision-maker.

You will not be treated less favourably by the University or suffer any detriment or disadvantage if you make an allegation in good faith, regardless of whether the allegation results in a sanction.

Disciplinary process vs. criminal process

The nature and scope of the university’s internal disciplinary process is fundamentally different from that of the criminal process.  

• Criminal process -  allegations are treated as a potential criminal offence and have to be proven beyond reasonable doubt;
  
• University’s disciplinary process - allegations are treated as a potential breach of discipline and allegations have to be proven on the balance of probabilities.