Alternative resolutions

Overview

Alternative resolutions aim to address concerns and behaviour in a constructive and positive way.

This approach explores the context of the concern, considers different viewpoints and experiences, and aims to understand the impact of an individual’s behaviour on others in line with the Student Code of Conduct.

Alternative resolutions can be used in a range of situations, including: 

• microaggressions
• harassment
• sexual harassment
• inappropriate use of social media
• discriminatory language and behaviour

Alternative resolutions focus on impact and understanding rather than evidence and  judgement.

We won’t collect evidence or come to decisions about who’s responsible for the behaviour. Instead, we seek to:  

• understand the impact the behaviour has had on you/others
• address challenging situations between you and another student(s)
• create space to gain a  greater understanding of others’ perspectives and experiences
• facilitate a way for you to continue with your studies,  research or living situation

If an alternative resolution is recommended 

You’ll be invited to meet with a member of staff from the Student Experience Diversity and Inclusion team. They’ll discuss your report in more detail to ensure they understand:

• what you’ve experienced
• when it took place
• where it took place
• who it is that you’re reporting

The impact of this behaviour on you as the reporting party is a key consideration.

There are a number of possible alternative resolutions and you will be supported in deciding on the most appropriate approach.

Types of alternative resolutions 

None of our resolution options require investigations or evidence.  They’re not intended to make a decision on guilt or responsibility. 

They’re voluntary and require you, and others involved, to:

• positively engage with the process
• have a desire to move forward from a challenging situation

We hope an alternative resolution will provide a positive resolution to the report you’ve made, however should the behaviour not be resolved or further incidents take place, we may then recommend escalating your report to the University investigation process. 

Messages of Concern meetings

These are reflective  discussions, led by a member of staff, with the person whose behaviour is causing you concern. 

It will explore:

• how their actions have impacted you and the University community
• our code of conduct and expectations of behaviour
• understanding of the issue that’s been reported (for example offensive language, misogyny)
• how the reported student might consider making changes to their behaviour 

This might be used in circumstances that involve one of the following:

• microaggressions
• harassment
• bullying
• some instances of sexual misconduct
• inappropriate use of social media

Following a Messages of Concern meeting, we expect the reported student to:

• understand the University’s Student Code of Conduct and expectations of behaviour
• Have an understanding of the subject matter the report relates to, for example misogyny, racism or homophobia
• be able to reflect on the impact of their behaviour on others and consider making beneficial changes

Possible outcomes:

• an apology
• an agreement not to repeat the concerning behaviour
• a commitment to not to contact/ approach reporting party

Harassment resolution

This involves a member of support staff meeting with and exploring the concerns of the reporting party. Staff may meet with you individually, or together with the other party(s) depending on the circumstances. They’ll work with you to identify outcomes and agree on actions relating to the behaviour to resolve the situation.

This is typically used for cases of bullying and harassment.

Possible outcomes:

•  an end to the bullying / harassing behaviour
• identifying a way to move forward without further concerns

Mediation

Mediation provides an opportunity for multiple parties involved in a dispute or misunderstanding to be supported in understanding and exploring the differences that have led to this situation. Meetings will be facilitated by an impartial mediator, so that all parties feel heard and able to participate in the process. The aim of mediation is for all the parties involved to help disputing parties reach a mutually agreeable resolution to their conflict.

Mediation is typically used for disputes and misunderstandings between individuals, where there's a need or want to be able to maintain an amicable relationship, for example when students are living together or studying on the same course.

Possible outcomes:

• Identifying and reflecting on behaviours and understanding the impact of these on  the different parties
• agreeing  a way forward, focussing on a shared goals and building trust