Sexual misconduct describes misuses of power usually enacted by academic, professional, contracted, and temporary staff in their relations with students (on some occasions it can also occur in relations with other staff members and between students who have unequal institutional power).
Sexual misconduct can include harassment, assault, grooming, bullying, sexual invitations, comments and non-verbal communication with sexual content or overtones, creation of atmospheres of discomfort, and promised resources in exchange for sexual access. The term ‘sexual harassment’ captures only some of the possible abuses of power that may occur. Sexual misconduct more specifically raises issues of unequal relationships, consent, and the prevention of equal access to education, opportunities and career progression. Intimate relationships between staff and students are strongly discouraged as detailed in the University’s personal relationships policy.
It is never ok for someone to make you feel pressured into doing something that you do not want to.
What support is available for cases of sexual misconduct?