Student safety, protection and support

What to do in an emergency

If you or someone else is in immediate danger, it’s important to act quickly. Your safety is the priority.

If you are on campus

Call Security: 020 8411 6200 (available 24/7). They can respond quickly, contact emergency services, and guide them to your location.
Go to a staffed building: If it’s safe to do so, go to the nearest reception desk or speak to any member of staff.

If you are off campus

Call 999 for emergency services (police, ambulance, or fire) if you are in immediate danger or need urgent help.

If you need medical help but it’s not life-threatening, call NHS 111 or visit 111.nhs.uk.

If you’ve experienced sexual violence or assault

Find a safe place. If you’re in danger, call 999.
Consider getting medical care. You don’t have to report to the police to get support or medical attention.
You can visit a Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC) for confidential medical support, including emergency contraception and forensic evidence collection. You don’t need to report to the police to do this. The nearest SARC is: The Havens (London) | 020 3299 1599 (24/7 advice line) | www.thehavens.org.uk
Speak to someone you trust - you can contact our Student Support and Wellbeing team, or a trained Student Liaison Officer when you’re ready.

After the emergency

Even after an urgent situation has passed, you’re not alone. We’re here to support you - whether you want to talk, report what happened, or just need help figuring out what to do next. Visit our support page and/or reporting options page to find out more.

I need to talk to someone

If you or someone else is in immediate danger, call 999 straight away. You can also visit our student support for more advice on what to do in urgent situations.

If something has happened and you’re not sure what to do, you don’t have to figure it out alone.

We have a friendly Care and Concern team made up of specially trained staff who are here to listen, support you, and help you understand your options. You don’t need to make a formal report to access this support.

Who you’ll speak to

Our Care and Concern team includes:

Student Liaison Officers – specially trained to support students affected by harassment, sexual misconduct, or sexual violence.
Wellbeing and Mental Health Advisors – experienced in helping students manage wellbeing, distress, and mental health concerns.

You can talk to us about anything; whether you're worried about something that happened to you, a friend, or you're just unsure if something feels right.

How to get in touch

Just send a quick email to CareandConcern@mdx.ac.uk and let us know that you’d like to speak to someone - you don’t need to share any details in your message unless you want to.

We’ll get back to you and offer a time for a phone call, a Microsoft Teams meeting, or an in-person chat on campus, whatever feels most comfortable for you.

Together, we’ll:

Listen to your concerns
Talk through your support and reporting options
Help you access any further support you might need

There’s no pressure to take any specific action. We’re here to help you feel safe, heard, and supported.

Support at Middlesex

If you’ve been affected by harassment, sexual misconduct or any behaviour that’s made you feel unsafe or uncomfortable, you are not alone, and support is available.

You do not need to make a report to access support. Whether you’re looking for someone to talk to, need help understanding your options, or want support to stay on track with your studies, we’re here for you.

Online support information

You can find helpful information, guidance, and signposting right here on this website. You can also find additional information on the MyMDX app.

Specialist one-to-one support

Middlesex has a dedicated first response team (details in the Care and Concern section above).

You can access this support whether:

You’re affected by someone else’s behaviour
You’re unsure whether something was okay
You’ve been named in a report
You just want to talk things through

There is no pressure to take any action, and speaking to a Student Liaison Officer or Mental Health Advisor does not mean you’re making a formal report.

If you are reported in a case involving harassment or sexual misconduct, a different SLO will be assigned to support you separately and fairly.

How to access support

It’s easy to reach us - just email CareandConcern@mdx.ac.uk and let us know you’d like to speak with someone. You don’t need to include any details in your message unless you want to.

We’ll contact you to book a one-to-one appointment at a time that works for you; this can be on campus, over the phone, or on MS Teams.

What we offer

Student Liaison Officers and Mental Health Advisors can provide:

Priority one-to-one support (non-emergency)
Clear, confidential advice on your options - including reporting routes
Practical support to help you stay on track with your studies
Support with risk management if there’s ongoing concern about harm or safety
Help through internal investigations if you choose to make a formal complaint
Supporting statements for extenuating circumstances so you don’t have to explain distressing experiences more than once
Referrals to external services, such as counselling, ISVAs (Independent Sexual Violence Advisers), or police support officers, if and when you're ready
Liaison with your academic department, placements, or accommodation, only with your consent, to ensure the right support is in place

If you’re not sure whether what happened “counts” or what kind of help you need, that’s okay. We’ll listen, explain what’s available, and support you to make the decision that’s right for you. Contact us at CareandConcern@mdx.ac.uk.

Student Protection Plan

The Student Protection Plan requires us to identify any risks to continuation of study for our students, measures put in place to mitigate those risks, arrangements for refund and compensation and for publication of the plan. This plan is based on our assessment of our risk profile in relation to the continuation of study for Middlesex University students as at 22 April 2022. You can download the Student Protection Plan.

The plan covers an assessment of the range of risks to the continuation of study for Middlesex students, and the measures put in place to mitigate those risks that the University considers to be reasonably likely to crystallise

One of the Middlesex University core values is ‘We put students first’. We have a regulatory framework to support student continuation of study, including:

robust processes for approval of new programmes, amendment of programme content and discontinuation of programmes that follow expectations set out in the QAA Quality Code
strong budget setting and management processes and regular reporting
active student representation and requirements for student engagement in key programme matters
a clear Complaints Procedure that complies with the OIA Good Practice Framework
a governance structure that meets good practice standards and ensures decision-making is evidence-based and transparent.

Hendon campus

We have identified that the risk that the University will no longer be able to deliver programmes is negligible since the University is in a strong and robust position. We have no current plans to close departments or subject areas. We design our programmes to be taught by teams of academic staff and have access to specialist part-time staff, and appoint teams of supervisors to supervise research students. Thus we are not reliant on the availability of the expertise of a single individual to support students in a particular subject area. Our aim is to enable students to complete their programme and ensure that we have access to subject experts to enable students to complete.

In relation to the closure of programmes. we make decisions based on demand and currency of content, and inform applicants as soon as possible about programmes that we intend to close. Where possible, we will offer an alternative programme in a similar subject area or support undergraduate applicants to substitute their choice of university via UCAS.

If a programme closure is proposed, we implement our programme closure process which requires approval from the Academic Provision Approvals Committee. Current students will be consulted and provided with the opportunity to complete the programme or transfer to an equivalent alternative. We work with students to confirm options in relation to transfer to other programmes or modules and students have access to academic and professional services support via UniHelp and the Progression and Support team.

For courses in complementary medicine and interpreting and translation, currently in the process of closure, we have made arrangements with all students to ensure that they have the opportunity to complete their studies.

Malta campus

We notified students in January 2019 that we will be closing our Malta campus in September 2022. The risk to current students is low. The risk to current students is low since we are committed to ensuring that all students recruited can complete their programme of study within the scheduled time frames. We employ staff at Malta campus and will have access to staff at our Hendon campus to ensure that delivery to existing students can continue. Some of our programmes will remain open for recruitment for one or two more academic years because they can be completed by 2022.

In order to manage the closure, we have established a steering group led by the DVC (Learning and Innovation) with oversight of the closure process. An operational project board has responsibility for delivering and supporting activities designed to enable every student to complete their studies. In addition, it focuses on effective communication, coordination, transparency and best possible use of the allocated resources.

Apprenticeship programmes

We recognise that there may be risks associated with apprenticeship programmes, such as the risk of the employer no longer being able to support a student. The Apprenticeship Steering Group has been established to oversee the arrangements for the establishment and management of degree apprenticeships and continues to review the arrangements for apprenticeship programmes and contracts as we develop apprenticeship provision.

Overseas campuses (Dubai, Mauritius) and franchise partners

The risk that we close a programme at our Hendon campus that is delivered at one of our overseas campuses or franchised partners is low. We maintain relationships with local regulators so that we are aware of pending changes in local regulation or culture and can plan accordingly. We appoint link tutors and programme leaders who manage the relationship between the programmes offered at our Hendon campus and our overseas campuses and franchise partners. We will always ensure that students can complete their programmes.

Collaborative partners

The risk that students at a collaborative partner organisation are no longer able to study a Middlesex University programme because of closure or financial failure of the collaborative partner organisation is low. We have arrangements in place to oversee the financial and quality standing of collaborative partners. Memoranda of Co-operation between Middlesex University and the collaborative partner set out the terms under which a programme can be offered by a collaborative partner. All partners have contingency plans in place which identifies the arrangements that will be used should the specific partner and/or programme close or fail as a result of financial or other means. If a partner were to close we would implement the arrangements detailed in the plan.

Refund and compensation

In the event that the University was unable to preserve continuation of study for students, it would seek to provide appropriate compensation to students. The University has established procedures for determining compensation. You can download the Refund and Compensation Policy.

Communication of plan

The Student Protection Plan is made available online on Student Protection Plan document. It is also communicated to students through links included in programme handbooks.

If the University closes a programme during the recruitment cycle, or makes changes to the programme, we inform applicants as early as possible in order to minimise the potential disruption to the application process. Where possible, we will offer an alternative programme in a similar subject area or support applicants’ substitution of choice to another institution via UCAS.

Where we make major changes to programmes, or make a decision to close a programme, students are notified by the programme leader, and provided with the information required to enable them to continue to study and to complete the programme. Students have access to independent advice via UniHelp and the Progression and Support team.

Policies

Middlesex University has a range of policies to ensure a safe, respectful and inclusive community. These policies work together to set out clear expectations for behaviour, outline our procedures for addressing concerns, and ensure that everyone feels supported.

Key policies include:

Sexual Misconduct, Bullying and Harassment policy – details how we prevent, address and respond to incidents of sexual misconduct, bullying, and harassment.
Safeguarding, Safety and Support policy – outlines our commitment to safeguarding the wellbeing of all members of our university community, and how we meet our statutory duties to protect children, young adults and adults at risk.
Equality, Diversity and Inclusion policies – demonstrates our commitment to creating an environment which ensures equality of opportunity for all.
Student Conduct and Discipline Rules – outlines expected behaviours and the process for addressing student misconduct.
Student Complaints and Grievance Procedure – ensures we appropriately address concerns about staff behaviour or university practice.
Code of Practice on Freedom of Speech – provides guidelines on how freedom of speech should be exercised and protected within university settings.

All University policies can all be viewed on the policies webpage.

How to tell us if something has happened

If something has happened that’s made you feel unsafe, uncomfortable or distressed, you can tell us. Whether you want to talk it through, get support, or make a formal report, we’re here to help.

You are in control of what happens next.

Not sure about reporting?

You don’t have to make a formal report to get help. If you’re unsure about what to do or just want to speak to someone first, our specialist staff can support you.

Speak confidentially with a trained Student Liaison Officer or Mental Health Advisor - they’ll listen, explain your options, and help you decide what feels right for you.

Ready to tell us more?

You can make a report using our Report it to Stop it form. There are two ways to do this:

1. Make an anonymous report

You won’t need to give your name or contact details. We won’t be able to follow up with you or take action on the report, but your information helps us monitor patterns and improve safety. We will store the information securely.

2. Make a report with your contact details

This means one of our trained staff will get in touch with you directly. They will not pressure you to take any action. Their role is to understand what happened, explain your options clearly, and support you in deciding what you want to do next.
You can still choose not to proceed with a formal complaint - that’s entirely up to you.

Remember — you don’t have to make a formal report to get support!

You can access support at any time, even if you choose not to make a report. Find out more about support at Middlesex.

How we train our staff to support you

At Middlesex University, we want every student to feel safe, supported, and heard. That’s why we make sure our staff are trained to respond appropriately and sensitively when students disclose experiences of harassment, sexual misconduct, or other forms of distress.

Training for all staff

All Middlesex University staff receive dedicated training on how to respond to students who may be in distress or need help. This includes:

Recognising signs that a student may need support
Responding in a supportive, non-judgemental way
Knowing how and when to help students access support from the University’s Care and Concern process

This training is called Student Safety and Support Training, and it’s tailored specifically to how Middlesex supports student wellbeing. It’s delivered regularly throughout the year and is part of our ongoing commitment to creating a responsive, student-focused culture.

Specialist training for Student Liaison Officers

Some students may choose to speak to one of our trained Student Liaison Officers (SLOs). These are specialist staff members who provide direct support to students who have experienced harassment or sexual violence.

Our SLOs have completed the nationally recognised Sexual Violence Liaison Officer Development Programme, delivered by LimeCulture, a leading UK provider of training in this area. This means they are specially trained to:

Listen and respond to disclosures with empathy and care
Explain your options clearly, whether you're seeking support, safety planning, or thinking about making a report
Help you access internal and external support services
Respect your choices and support you to make informed decisions

Whether you choose to report or not, SLOs are here to ensure you feel supported and empowered throughout.

Student information and training

As part of our commitment to creating a safe, respectful and inclusive community, all first-year students will take part in a timetabled training session during Welcome Week.

This session will cover:

What respectful behaviour looks like
What you can expect from your fellow students
What happens when behaviour falls short of expectations
How to report concerns or access support if something happens

Students' Union

You can get involved with the Students' Union for further welfare and community resources.

Your data and confidentiality

We understand that sharing an experience of harassment or sexual misconduct can be difficult. If you choose to tell us something, we will treat your information with sensitivity, respect, and fairness.

How we handle your information

We are committed to protecting your privacy. Any information you share with us will only be passed on when it's necessary - and usually, only with your permission. If there’s ever a reason we need to share information without your consent, we will always try to let you know first.

When we might need to share information

There are some situations where we may need to share limited information with others in the University, or with external services. This might happen when:

A formal report is being investigated, and information is needed to follow proper procedures
You or another student need support or adjustments
There are concerns about someone’s safety or wellbeing
We are required to by law or as part of our duty of care

We will always aim to balance your right to privacy with our responsibilities to keep everyone safe.

How your data is stored

All personal information is handled in line with UK data protection laws. Your data is stored securely and only for as long as necessary, in accordance with the University’s Record Retention Schedule. You can find further privacy info on the policies webpage.

This glossary explains key terms used across our webpages on harassment, sexual misconduct, and support. Understanding these can help you know your rights, identify unacceptable behaviour, and make informed decisions about what to do next.

Abuse of Power: When someone uses their position of authority or influence to take advantage of another person. This could happen in a staff–student or supervisor–supervisee relationship, or even in peer relationships where one person has more control or status. Abuse of power can be emotional, academic, sexual, or professional.

Consent: Consent means agreeing to something freely, clearly, and willingly. For sexual activity, consent must be given by someone with the capacity to do so (e.g., not under pressure, not drunk or high). Consent can be withdrawn at any time. Without consent, sexual activity is unlawful.

Discrimination: Treating someone unfairly because of who they are — for example, their race, gender, religion, sexual orientation, disability, or age. Discrimination can be direct (obvious unfair treatment) or indirect (a rule or policy that disadvantages someone unfairly).

Harassment: Unwanted behaviour that makes someone feel distressed, intimidated, degraded, or offended. It can be verbal, non-verbal, physical, or written. Harassment can be based on personal characteristics (e.g. gender, race, disability) or be of a sexual nature.

Intimate Relationship: A close personal relationship that may include emotional connection, physical closeness, or sexual activity. This can be between romantic partners, or people casually dating or “seeing” each other. In a university context, these relationships can raise concerns if there’s a power imbalance.

Professional Relationship: A relationship where one person has a responsibility or duty towards another — for example, a staff member supporting a student. Professional boundaries must be maintained to ensure trust, fairness, and safety. Entering an intimate relationship in this context can be a conflict of interest.

Relevant Relationship: At Middlesex, a relevant relationship includes any situation where one person holds influence, authority, or power over another — for example, a tutor and a student, a line manager and a team member, or a mentor and mentee. These relationships require careful boundaries to avoid abuse of power.

Sexual Harassment: Unwanted sexual behaviour that makes someone feel uncomfortable, intimidated, or degraded. This could include sexual comments, touching, gestures, jokes, messages, or sharing sexual images without consent. It doesn’t have to be repeated — one incident can be enough.

Sexual Misconduct: Any unwelcome behaviour of a sexual nature that violates someone’s dignity, autonomy, or safety. It includes sexual harassment, sexual assault, stalking, coercion, and sharing private images without permission. It can happen in person or online.

Sexual Assault: Any sexual act done to someone without their consent. This includes unwanted sexual touching, groping, or rape. Sexual assault is a criminal offence.

Rape: Rape is when someone intentionally penetrates another person’s vagina, anus, or mouth with their penis without their consent. Under UK law, rape can only be committed by someone with a penis, but other serious forms of non-consensual sexual activity are also criminal offences (e.g. assault by penetration). Rape is a serious crime and can have long-lasting emotional and psychological effects.

Stalking: Unwanted, repeated behaviour that causes someone to feel scared or harassed. It can include following, watching, messaging, or monitoring someone’s activities. Stalking can happen in person or online and is a form of harassment.

Victim/Survivor: Both terms may be used by people who have experienced harassment, sexual violence, or misconduct. “Victim” is often used in legal or formal contexts, while “survivor” is preferred by some as it reflects strength and recovery. At Middlesex, we will use the term that feels right for you.