We are available to support survivors of sexual harm, both students and staff, and give advice and information to supporters of survivors.
You can seek support for anything that has happened, at any time, whether it is recent or in the past.
We also provide education on handling disclosures and prevention.
Support for students, staff and supporters of survivors
Your rights as a person affected by sexual harm (the affected party)
An affected party is an individual who considers that they have been subject to sexual harm.
The University of Otago’s Sexual Misconduct Policy sets out your rights, as the affected party, at clause 3(a). Including to be:
- Treated in a manner that allows you to maintain control of your information and to determine your own needs,
- Heard
- Treated with respect and dignity, and to be free of blame and judgment
Read more about your rights as an affected party in the Sexual Misconduct Policy, clause 3(a)
The University's response will be determined by whatever path you choose to take. You will maintain control over what steps are taken, when they are taken, and who is informed.
What this means is:
- You can make a disclosure of sexual harm and choose to have no one told and no steps taken
- The respondent (the person who is alleged to have committed the sexual harm) will only be told about the disclosure if you agree to that. However, you cannot obtain no-fault protective measures or have an investigation completed without the respondent being told about the allegation, and being told who made the allegation
- Your parents will not be informed unless, either you consent to that, or doing so is necessary to prevent an urgent risk to your health or well-being
- Under exceptional circumstances, the University may need to investigate a complaint, with or without the affected parties' consent. This is usually when there is a significant risk to the community.
You can still access support avenues while keeping the disclosure private.
Your privacy as a person affected by sexual harm (the affected part)
As the affected party, you have the right to have your privacy respected to the greatest degree possible in the circumstances. Those rights are set out in paragraphs 5(c) and 5(d) of the University of Otago Sexual Misconduct Policy.
Go to 5(c) and 5(d) of the University of Otago's Sexual Misconduct Policy
Dealing with historical allegations
It doesn't matter how long ago the sexual harm happened; you will have access to support and services at the University of Otago.
When the sexual harm is alleged to have happened, can however affect whether or not the university can investigate the matter. The respondent has to have a sufficient connection to the university.
Police investigations do not have that same restriction.
Making sure you are safe
It is really important that you feel safe both on and off campus.
Get details on who to contact if you are feeling unsafe
Making a complaint about sexual harm
If you or someone you know has suffered sexual harm and you would like to make a formal complaint about it, you can lodge a complaint with the police or with the university.
We can help you make a complaint and assist and support you throughout the process.
If you are not ready to make a formal complaint, we will support you in other ways.
Find out how to make a complaint or what other options are available