Rila Institute of Health Sciences is committed to providing a safe, respectful, and inclusive learning environment for all students and staff. Harassment and sexual misconduct will not be tolerated in any form, whether online or offline.

This page is the single comprehensive source of information on our policies and procedures relating to harassment and sexual misconduct.

  1. Definitions
  • Harassment – unwanted conduct related to a protected characteristic that violates dignity or creates an intimidating, hostile, degrading, humiliating, or offensive environment (Equality Act 2010; Protection from Harassment Act 1997).
  • Sexual misconduct – any unwanted conduct of a sexual nature, including sexual harassment, assault, or attempted unwanted sexual activity.
  • Abuse of power – when a staff member uses their position to exploit, pressure, or disadvantage a student.
  • Intimate personal relationships – romantic, emotional, or sexual relationships between staff and students.
  1. Our Commitments

We will:

  • Provide clear reporting routes for any concerns.
  • Treat all reports sensitively, confidentially, and fairly.
  • Provide appropriate academic support to students affected.
  • Signpost students to specialist external support services where required.
  • Train all staff and students so they understand what harassment and sexual misconduct is, how to report it, and what support is available.
  • Operate fairly and transparently in investigating and resolving cases.
  • Uphold freedom of speech and academic freedom within the law.
  1. Reporting Concerns

Students, staff, or third parties can report harassment or sexual misconduct at any time. Reports may be made:

  • By email: safeguarding@rila.co.uk
  • Reports may be submitted on behalf of another person.
  • Anonymous reports will be considered, but may limit the action we can take.
  1. Handling of Information
  • All information will be handled in line with UK data protection legislation.
  • Reports will be dealt with sensitively, respecting privacy and confidentiality.
  • Students will be informed how their information will be used and the outcome of any investigation that affects them.
  1. Support for Students

We recognise that harassment and sexual misconduct can significantly impact well-being and academic progress. Support is available to all students involved in an incident, whether as a reporter, a person affected, a witness, or the subject of a report.

Academic Support

  • Extensions, deferrals, or alternative assessment arrangements where appropriate.
  • Guidance on continuing studies during or after an investigation.

Personal Support

Students will be signposted to professional and confidential services, including:

  • Rape Crisis England & Wales – 24/7 support line and online resources for anyone affected by sexual violence. https://rapecrisis.org.uk/
  • Samaritans – free, confidential emotional support, available 24/7 by phone on 116 123 or via online chat.
    https://www.samaritans.org/
  • Victim Support – independent charity supporting victims of crime or traumatic events, available 24/7.
    https://www.victimsupport.org.uk/
  • Mind – mental health charity offering information and support on a wide range of issues.
    https://www.mind.org.uk/

For students outside the UK, we will help identify appropriate local or national support organisations in your region.

Practical Support

  • Guidance on reporting incidents to the police or relevant authorities, should the student wish to do so.
  • Ongoing contact and updates during any investigatory process.
  1. Staff Responsibilities and Training
  • All staff will complete training on recognising, responding to, and reporting harassment and sexual misconduct.
  • Relevant staff (tutors, course leads, administrators) will be trained to handle disclosures appropriately.
  • Investigations will be carried out fairly, with clear timescales and outcomes communicated to all affected parties.
  1. Relationships Between Staff and Students

To prevent conflicts of interest or abuse of power:

  • Rila prohibits intimate personal relationships between staff and students during the period of study.
  • Any breaches will be addressed under disciplinary procedures and may result in termination of employment.
  1. Freedom of Speech and Academic Freedom

Rila is committed to freedom of speech within the law. Students and staff have the right to express lawful opinions, even if they are controversial, provided this does not amount to harassment or misconduct.

  1. Review and Transparency
  • This policy will be reviewed annually and updated as needed.
  • Historical versions will be archived and available on request.
  • Students and staff will be notified each year of this policy and how to access it.

Contact for Questions or Reports
Safeguarding Officer
Email: safeguarding@rila.co.uk