We believe racial harassment is never ok.
Racial harassment is an incident, or a series of incidents intended or likely to intimidate, offend or harm an individual or group because of their ethnic origin, colour, race, religion or nationality. A racist incident is any incident that is perceived to be racist by the victim or any other person (MacPherson Report 1999).
Harassment is contrary to the MRC/UVRI & LSHTM Uganda Research Unit’s Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Policy, including on the basis of race.
THINK
- Are they in immediate danger? If they are in immediate danger or seriously injured, you can either call our EDI Helpline on ++256 702087737 or 192, or contact the MRC/UVRI & LSHTM Uganda Research Unit security team on extension 133 for emergency help.
- Find a safe space. If an incident has just happened try and find somewhere they feel safe. If this isn't possible they are scared or fearful you can contact the MRC/UVRI & LSHTM Uganda Research Unit security team on extension 133.
- What is racial harassment? It might be useful to think about what is meant by racial harassment and how these behaviours are described.
TALK
- To a friend – talking things through with someone you trust can sometimes help.
- Anti-Bullying and Harassment Advisors can talk through the MRC/UVRI & LSHTM Uganda Research Unit’s procedures, how to make a complaint and what support is available, in confidence.
REPORT
- Report and Support. Staff and students can report an incident using MRC/UVRI & LSHTM Uganda Research Unit’s Report and Support system. You can choose to do this anonymously or you can make a report with contact details. If you choose to report with contact details your submission will be reviewed by the Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Team who will contact you to talk through the options.
- Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Policy. This document provides further information.
- Grievance Procedure. If you choose to make a formal complaint to MRC/UVRI & LSHTM Uganda Research Unit about a member of staff or student there are procedures which set out the steps you'll need to follow.
- Whistleblowing Policy. Whistleblowing is the disclosure of information which relates to suspected wrongdoing or dangers at work. This policy should not be used for complaints relating to your own personal circumstances, such as the way you have been treated at work. In those cases you should use the Grievance Procedure or Equality, Diversity and Equality Policy as appropriate.
GET SUPPORT
If you are being racially harassed, there are a variety of support options available.
MRC/UVRI & LSHTM Uganda Research Unit Support for Staff
- Only connect staff counselling service. A trained counsellor can meet with you to discuss any issue and all issues will be treated confidentially.
- HR Department. If you are a member of staff or manager, your HR department will be able to identify the support that’s available to you.
- Anti-Bullying and Harassment Advisors can talk through the MRC/UVRI & LSHTM Uganda Research Unit’s procedures, how to make a complaint and what support is available, in confidence.