Sexual misconduct is when someone with institutional power acts in a sexually inappropriate way towards someone with less institutional power. It is useful to familiarise yourself with the full definition.
If you know someone who is experiencing sexual misconduct at MRC/UVRI & LSHTM Uganda Research Unit, there are a number of ways you can support them.
MRC/UVRI & LSHTM Uganda Research Unit is committed to creating a safe and inclusive culture and will take actions to respond to and prevent it from happening.
THINK
- Are they in immediate danger? If they are in immediate danger or seriously injured, they 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, you can 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 1505.
TALK
- Listen. Just taking the time to listen to someone and talk about what has happened can help. These six active listening tips might help you support them (Published on Oct 4, 2015 Based on the Samaritans guidelines for active listening).
- Give options. When they have finished talking ask them if they are okay to talk through some possible options and next steps.
- 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 MRCG at LSHTM 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 Diversity Policy as appropriate.
GET SUPPORT
If you know someone who is the target of sexual misconduct, there are a variety of support options available for them. It's important you take care of yourself too - you can also access student and/or staff wellbeing services for support.
MRCUganda Support for Staff and Students
- 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 MRCUganda’s procedures, how to make a complaint and what support is available, in confidence.