This document follows closely the Senate Guidelines but in the event of any discrepancy between this document and the Guidelines, the Guidelines' version shall prevail. This document has been produced by the University's Sexual Harassment Committee for the practical guidance of those involved in the primary management of sexual harassment cases. The University has a commitment to equal opportunity in employment and education. It recognises the right of all students and staff to work and study in an environment free from sexual harassment. The University, therefore, will not tolerate sexual harassment or victimisation of a person who lodges a grievance involving sexual harassment.
Sexual harassment is any form of offensive sexual attention that is uninvited and unwelcome .
It can be a single incident or a persistent pattern of unwelcome behaviour. It may be intentional or unintentional. The majority of complaints of sexual harassment come from women, but both genders can be sexually harassed Sexual harassment does not generally arise in consensual relationships. Consensual relationships or relationships of mutual attraction between people are based on genuine choice and consent. Where such situations develop the staff member's professional responsibility to contribute towards an environment of trust and respect would suggest a withdrawal from the supervisory relationship.