Related University policies and procedures
Non-academic misconduct disciplinary procedure
This procedure explains how complaints about student misconduct are investigated and managed within the University. All types of misconduct fall within the scope of this procedure except for academic misconduct. Action against a student can only be taken through this procedure. The procedure falls within the scope of the University’s Regulation 7, which also governs academic misconduct.
Non-academic misconduct disciplinary procedure
Staff grievance procedure and Staff disciplinary procedure
These provide a framework to deal with concerns, problems or complaints raised by employees during their employment in relation to matters affecting themselves as individuals or matters affecting their personal dealings or relationships with other employees. For matters relating to misconduct, the grievance procedure works alongside the staff disciplinary procedure.
Complaints of misconduct procedure
This outlines the procedure for investigating student complaints of University staff misconduct. Reports can be made directly in writing via a form available on the Complaints of Misconduct web page, or via Report and Support. In each case, the report will be investigated by the University’s Complaints team and may involve other teams within the University as appropriate, for example, Human Resources.
Complaints of misconduct procedure
Complaints procedure
The University’s Complaints procedure is for general complaints about services received from the University itself, rather than the conduct of an individual. Examples of complaints under this procedure might include the quality and standards of services provided by the University, such as learning and teaching provision, advice, resources and facilities; the applications process or its outcome; failure to apply an administrative or academic process; unfair treatment; or concerns about the impact of a University policy.
The Complaints procedure cannot be used as an appeals procedure for any other University procedure. Appeals procedures are outlined within each individual policy or procedure.
Where misconduct is alleged against a staff member, this will be considered under the Complaints of Misconduct Procedure.
Code of practice on academic freedom and freedom of speech
The University approach regarding academic freedom and freedom of speech is outlined in the University’s Regulation 10. Guidance on the application of this Regulation is currently being revised and is expected to be in place in early 2025. The guidance will outline the University’s commitment to balancing such freedoms with the right of all staff and students to a work and study environment where everyone is treated with dignity and respect, free from all forms of harassment, bullying and hate incidents. Concerns against individuals regarding academic freedom or freedom of speech can be raised through the relevant staff and student complaints procedures (Non-academic misconduct Disciplinary Procedure, Grievance Procedure, Complaints of Misconduct Procedure), or against the institution through the University’s Complaints procedure.
Safeguarding procedures
The University of York Safeguarding web pages explain how staff and students can raise concerns if they think someone is at risk of harm. Reports can be made by completing a safeguarding reporting form or if the report is regarding a member of staff, the Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead in Human Resources, and advice is available from the safeguarding team.
Where there are concerns about immediate risk of harm, contact emergency services on 999, or contact Campus Safety on 01904 32 3333 or via the SafeZone app.