Sexual harassment is never okay. It can happen to anyone, regardless of gender, sexuality, disability, or background. It includes any unwanted behaviour of a sexual nature that:
- Violates your dignity.
- Makes you feel intimidated, degraded, or humiliated.
- Creates a hostile or offensive environment.
Sexual harassment is contrary to the Equality Act 2010 and the University's Harassment and Bullying Procedure.
Your safety comes first
- Are you in immediate danger? If you are in immediate danger or seriously injured, call 999 (or 112 from a mobile).
- If you are on campus, tell Campus Safety on 01483 68 3333 that the emergency services are on their way and give your location.
- Find a safe space: if an incident has just happened, try to move to a place where you feel safe. If this isn’t possible on campus, you can also call Campus Safety.
Remember: the behaviour is not your fault. You are not to blame for someone else’s actions.
Talk to someone you trust
- Friends or family can be an important first step for emotional support.
- Sexual Violence Liaison Officers (SVLOs) SVLOs are specially trained staff who can provide confidential support if you’ve experienced sexual harassment, assault, or related harms. You do not need to be certain about what happened to access support.
- Campus Safety can explain how to make a report and connect you with further help.
- University of Surrey Students’ Union (USSU) can talk students through what options are available and support you through the process. This support includes attending any meetings with the University.
- Trade unions are organised groups of workers who come together to support each other in the workplace. The University of Surrey recognises three campus trade unions: Unison, UCU and Unite.
Reporting options
Any incident of sexual harassment, including those experienced online, can be reported.
- Report + Support Students and staff can report anonymously or request direct support from trained staff. Every report is taken seriously, and you will be supported to explore your options.
- Sexual Violence Liaison Officers (SVLOs) can support you to think through reporting options. They can help you make a report to the University or external services if you wish, and they will only act with your consent unless there is a serious safeguarding risk.
When sexual harassment may also be a crime
Some behaviours classed as sexual harassment are also criminal offences under English and Welsh law. These include:
- Stalking
- Indecent exposure
- “Upskirting”
- Any unwanted sexual contact (this is legally sexual assault)
Other forms of sexual harassment might also break the law depending on the situation. For example, if behaviours are repeated and intended to cause distress or alarm, this may amount to the criminal offence of harassment. You can read more from Rape Crisis here.
If you are unsure whether what happened to you is a crime, you can still access support. Specialist services and SVLOs can help you explore your options, including reporting to the police if you choose.
Ongoing support
- Centre for Wellbeing: free, confidential support for students.
- BHSF RISE Employee Assistance Programme: free 24/7 mental health, legal, and financial advice for staff.