We know harmful sexual behaviour can have a significant impact on people’s wellbeing, safety and sense of belonging. We recognise that deciding whether to share an experience or seek support can be difficult.
So, the University of Canterbury has introduced a new Harmful Sexual Behaviour Policy to help create clearer expectations around respectful behaviour, consent and responsibilities, while making it easier for students and staff with questions about seeking support, raising concerns, making a report, or supporting someone to find the information they need.
Harmful sexual behaviour is an overarching term used to describe behaviour of a sexual nature where consent has not been given. This behaviour is not acceptable at UC.
If you’ve experienced this, or you’re supporting someone who has, support is available.
You don’t need to decide what happens next before seeking information or support. You can take things at your own pace and choose the option that feels right for you. Support is available for experiences that have happened recently or in the past.
If you’re concerned about yourself or someone else, please reach out. UC is committed to ensuring people who seek support, raise concerns or make a report are treated with care, dignity and respect.
Harmful Sexual Behaviour – support and information
From the page linked above, you’ll find more information about:
- support options available to students who’ve experienced harmful sexual behaviour;
- support options available to students accused of harmful sexual behaviour;
- how to raise concerns or make a report;
- how to support someone who has experienced harmful sexual behaviour;
- the Harmful Sexual Behaviour Policy and related information.
We encourage all UC students to familiarise themselves with the Harmful Sexual Behaviour Policy and the accompanying Harmful Sexual Behaviour Procedure. In addition to outlining behaviours unacceptable at UC, it also clarifies the responsibilities of our community.
Breaches of the Policy constitute behavioural misconduct and may result in action being taken under UC processes.
For more information about expected and acceptable behaviour at UC, please refer to the Student Code of Conduct and Prevention of Harassment and Bullying Policy.
