Find out what support is offered to students and staff at the University who are experiencing intimate partner violence.
The University of Otago supports students and staff impacted by intimate partner violence through a multi-faceted approach that combines its formal policies with dedicated support services. This approach ensures that individuals have access to confidential support whether they choose to report it or not.
This combination of policies and services provides a holistic approach to survivor support.
Confidential and empowering support
You can first seek help from Te Whare Tāwharau without having to make a formal complaint. The support is confidential and survivor-led, meaning you remain in control of your choices, from seeking counselling to deciding whether to involve the police or the university's disciplinary process.
Safety and academic accommodations
Staff at Te Whare Tāwharau can support you with a range of academic accommodations and support you with safety planning.
Domestic Violence Policy
This specific policy, is primarily for staff, and provides entitlements such as paid domestic violence leave and the right to request flexible working arrangements.
Read the Domestic Violence Policy
Other relevant university policies
Sexual Misconduct Policy
This provides a formal avenue for students and staff to report incidents of sexual misconduct and for the university to potentially take disciplinary action against the respondent (person alleged to have caused harm).
Read the Sexual Misconduct Policy
Ethical Behaviour Policy
This policy provides a broader framework by promoting a respectful environment for all staff and students. It defines and prohibits behaviours like harassment, bullying, and abuse.
Read the Ethical Behaviour Policy
Student Code of Conduct
This code extends the university's authority to address behaviour that occurs off campus, which is crucial for intimate partner violence that often happens in private residences.
Read the Student Code of Conduct
Family Violence Act 2018
In addition to the University policies and support services, intimate partner violence is covered under the Family Violence Act 2018. It gives the police and courts powers to keep people safe and makes it easier for victim-survivors to get help.
- The law allows the police to act quickly, like getting protection orders or removing someone who is abusive from the home
- Courts can issue protection orders to keep someone safe and set rules for the abuser, like staying away or giving up weapons
- It recognises that safety is a priority, and agencies must work together to support victims and their families
Support staff from Te Whare Tāwharau can help connect you with the Police and other external support agencies, to get the assistance you need under the Family Violence Act (2018).
Campus and community support for students and staff
Campus support for students
- Campus chaplains – for faith-based and spiritual support
- Disability Information and Support
- The International Office – for cultural support
- No-fault protective measures
- OUSA Student Support
- Pacific Islands Centre – for cultural support
- Proctor's Office
- OUSA Queer Support
- Student Health – for medical assistance
- Te Huka Mātauraka - Maori Centre – for cultural support
- Te Whare Tāwharau
Campus support for staff
- EAP – all staff have access to the University’s Employee Assistance Programme which offers 3 free counselling sessions
- Flexible working arrangements
- Paid domestic violence leave
- Safety planning with the Proctor – contact the Proctor
- University of Otago Campus Chaplains – for faith-based and spiritual support
- Te Whare Tāwharau
Support in the community for staff and students
- ŌCASA – Ōtepoti Communities Against Sexual Abuse
- Ōtepoti – Dunedin Whānau Refuge – for women's refuge
- Shakti – serving migrant and refugee women