Promoting Dignity and Respect at the University of York
The University aims to provide a working and learning environment which will enable staff and students to fulfil their personal potential. In order to achieve this, the University is committed to creating an environment which promotes dignity and respect and where harassment and bullying are unacceptable.
The University's commitment to eliminating bullying and harassment is stated in the Equality and Diversity in Employment Policy and the Equality and Diversity Policy for Students. It is implemented through the Code of Practice on Harassment and monitored by a system for recording incidents of harassment.
The University’s work on harassment is informed by consultation. Key actions arising from recent consultations - the Staff Surveys of 2008 and 2011 and the Race Equality Consultation with staff and students - were:
- The inclusion of key messages on harassment and appropriate behaviour in University general training courses in order to reach a wider audience
- The launch of the University’s in-house mediation service
- Work with external partners to address off-campus harassment
What are my responsibilities and what can I do to help eliminate harassment and bullying at the University of York?
- Familiarise yourself with the Code of Practice on Harassment and ensure you adhere to it.
- Treat all others within the University community with dignity and respect. Certain characteristics under the Equality Act 2010 receive special protection.
- Ensure that all staff and students know where to view the code. Have accessible copies in your area of work.
- If you have responsibility for contractors, visitors, conference attendees, ensure that they are aware that the Code applies to them.
- Staff: complete the online Diversity in the Workplace training module. A range of other relevant courses are also provided under the University's Staff Development Programme.
- Ensure you have copies of other equality leaflets displayed in your area of work/study. These are available upon request from the Equality and Diversity Office
- Know where to go and where to direct others for advice and support, e.g. the Harassment Advisers
- Look at the Equality Challenge Unit’s 'Dignity at Work' - a Good Practice Guide for Higher Education Institutions.
- Contact the Equality and Diversity Office to arrange for the Equality and Diversity Roadshow to be displayed in your department.
Equality and Diversity Adviser
August 2012
Equality and Diversity Office,
Room D020, Sally Baldwin Buildings,
University of York, Heslington, York, UK. YO10 5DD
Tel: +44 1904 324680 email: equality@york.ac.uk