This webpage summarises the SGS College’s policies and procedures on student harassment and sexual misconduct and the support available. It is the 'single comprehensive source of information' required by the Office for Students (OfS registration condition E6).
At SGS College, we are deeply committed to fostering a safe, inclusive, and respectful environment where every individual can thrive, regardless of their background. We believe that everyone deserves to feel valued, supported, and empowered to reach their full potential.
Sexual misconduct and violence have no place in our community. We are clear in our stance: such behaviour is unacceptable and will not be tolerated. Any allegations will be taken seriously, handled with care, and addressed appropriately. We aim to build a culture where everyone feels a strong sense of belonging; where it’s safe to speak up, be heard, and access the support they need.
Our goal is to ensure that all members of our community are treated fairly and with dignity. To support this, the College maintains this central resource that outlines all relevant policies and procedures related to harassment and sexual misconduct.
What is sexual harassment and misconduct?
If you’ve experienced sexual misconduct—now or in the past—the College is here to support you. You can access confidential advice, emotional support, and practical help, whether or not you choose to report what happened. If you're over 18 and have experienced sexual assault, it's completely your choice whether to report it to the police. The choice to report is entirely yours, and your autonomy is respected. However, it’s important to understand that only law enforcement authorities are authorised to carry out a formal investigation.
Submitting a disclosure through the College system does not constitute an official report or formal complaint to SGS College. Rather, it is intended to provide you with access to support services and assist you in making an informed decision about your next steps. However, if the information you disclose raises significant concerns regarding your safety or the safety of others, SGS College may be required to take appropriate action, even if you have not requested such intervention.
Harassment
As defined by the Office for Students Harassment has the meaning given in section 26 of the Equality Act 2010 and section 1 of the Protection from Harassment Act 1997. Section 1 of the Protection from Harassment Act 1997 is interpreted in accordance with section 7 of that Act. Harassment is any unwanted behaviour linked to a protected characteristic (such as age, gender, race, or disability) that is meant to - or has the effect of - violating someone’s dignity or creating an intimidating, hostile, degrading, humiliating, or offensive environment. This includes harassment based on who someone is associated with or how they are perceived, as outlined in the Equality Act 2010.
Sexual Misconduct
Sexual misconduct refers to any unwanted behaviour of a sexual nature. This includes, but isn’t limited to:
Sexual harassment, as defined in Section 26(2) of the Equality Act 2010.
Sexual assault and rape, as defined in the Sexual Offences Act 2003.
Unwanted physical sexual advances, as described by the Equality and Human Rights Commission (2017)
Intimidation or offering benefits in exchange for sexual favours.
Sharing explicit images or videos of someone without their consent, as defined in the Criminal Justice and Courts Act 2015
If you are a student and require more information, including how to report concerns or get support, visit our Anonymous Safeguarding Report page on E-Campus and contact our specialist staff at the SGS Wellbeing Service.
Freedom of Speech and Academic Freedom
At SGS College, we are committed to protecting students from harassment and sexual misconduct while also upholding the principles of freedom of speech and academic freedom. In line with Condition E6, we recognise that open discussion, debate, and the exchange of diverse ideas are essential to higher education. Our policies are designed to ensure that students feel safe and supported, without restricting lawful expression—even when views may be challenging or controversial. We apply a balanced approach that respects both individual dignity and the right to free speech within the law.
Essential Information
Reporting harassment and sexual misconduct
How to get support if you've been affected
Investigating harassment and sexual misconduct
Handling Information
Communicating Decisions
Training for Students
Training for Staff
Personal Relationships between Staff and Students
Support for Students involved in incidents
Non-disclosure agreements
SGS College Safeguarding Statement & Contacts
Staff and Governors at South Gloucestershire and Stroud College (SGS) are fully committed to providing the safest possible environment for our students to study and train in and for our staff to work within.
We have a zero-tolerance approach to any type of abuse and our staff and governors are trained in how to raise any concerns they may have and how to handle a disclosure from students or staff in a safe and confidential way. The culture of our college is to provide an environment that respects and values difference and we have no tolerance for any behaviour that may be demeaning or disrespectful to anyone.
The routes for reporting inappropriate behaviour are safe and clearly signposted, as are the potential consequences for anyone who chooses to act in an inappropriate way.
If you are a student, parent, carer or member of the public and you are concerned about the wellbeing or safety of an SGS student during college hours (Monday–Thursday, 08:30–17:00 and Friday, 08:30–16:30), then you should:
Talk to your Tutor or your Education & Wellbeing Mentor in the first instance (if you are a student). If you cannot find your Tutor, you can talk to any SGS staff member who will help you accordingly.
Contact one of our Designated Safeguarding Officers (if you are a parent, carer or member of the public). See below for contact details by campus.
Bristol Campuses (Clifton, Filton, Queens Road, University Centre WISE):
Pez Perrin – Director of Wellbeing Services and Designated Safeguarding Lead: 0117 9192647 & 07903 894527
Out of hours: If you have an urgent concern out of hours or over a weekend, please contact the most appropriate emergency service.Other useful contacts include:
Other useful contacts include:
Social Care Emergency out of hours team (Bath & North East Somerset, Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire): 01454 615165
Gloucestershire Emergency Social Work Duty Team: 01452 614194
Police: 999 (emergency) / 101 (non-emergency)
Crimestoppers: 0800 555 111
Further Support: SARCs
We would strongly encourage you to report any incidences to the police. For support if you have been sexually assaulted, contact your local Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC):
South Glos & Bristol – The Bridge: 0117 342 6999 (24 hours)
.svg)
