Grievances Against Students

Introduction

University should be a great experience, where you can learn, grow, and enjoy everything student life has to offer. If someone’s behaviour is making that difficult, or if they’re acting in a way that breaches the University’s Code of Conduct, it’s important that you feel able to speak up.

guide explains what a grievance is, how you can try resolving concerns informally, and what to do if you need to make a formal report. Knowing the process can help you feel supported, empowered, and confident in taking action when something isn’t right.

What Is a Grievance?

A grievance is a serious dispute or complaint made by a student or member of staff against another student. It may relate to:

Sexual, racial, or religious harassment
Bullying, intimidating, or threatening behaviour
Creating or maintaining a hostile studying, working, or social environment

The first step of the grievance process

Wherever possible, you should try to resolve the issue informally first. This could involve calmly asking the individual to stop the behaviour and making it clear that it is unwelcome or inappropriate.

If doing this doesn’t feel safe or possible, you can seek support from a member of staff either from the University or from the Union Advice team. We can offer impartial advice and may be able to support you through mediation.

Reporting a Grievance Formally

If the issue cannot be resolved informally, the grievance should be reported in writing to your Dean of College or Director of Department. You can address your letter to them and hand it in at the Student Centre.

The Dean or Director may:

Dismiss the grievance if it’s considered trivial or invalid
Take steps they feel are appropriate to resolve the issue informally
Decide to refer the matter to the University’s student disciplinary procedure

The Union Advice team can guide you through writing and submitting your grievance or complaint. You can book an appointment through our online booking form.

Appeals

If you are unhappy with the outcome of your grievance, you can appeal the decision by providing further supporting evidence. Appeals are reviewed by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, who will make the final decision.

We can help you prepare and submit your appeal.

FAQs

Do I need to try the informal approach first?

Wherever possible, yes. Many issues can be resolved quickly through an informal conversation. However, if you feel unsafe or uncomfortable, you should seek support instead.

Who can support me during the process?

You can speak with a Union Advisor, who can offer confidential, impartial advice and support at any stage, informal, formal, or appeal.

What should be included in a formal grievance letter?

A clear description of the behaviour, dates, impact on you, and any evidence you have. We can help you write this.

Will the other student know I made the grievance?

In most cases, yes, as the University must inform them of the allegations. However, your safety and wellbeing will always be taken into account.

What if I don’t know who my Dean or Director is?

Book an appointment with the Union’s Advice Service or ask your personal academic tutor, who can help you find the right contact.