Consensual Relationships

25 Nov 2009

New policy has been launched

The University has launched a Consensual Relationships Policy in order to ensure that professional integrity is maintained when consensual/personal relationships exist or develop between members of staff or between staff and students.

In the context of the Policy, a consensual/personal relationship is defined as:

• A family relationship
• A business/commercial/financial relationship
  or
• A sexual/romantic relationship

The Policy sets out the principles that should be observed and the action that should be taken by staff to ensure that they are not open to allegations of impropriety, bias, abuse of authority, discrimination, conflict of interest or favouritism. It also advises on sources of guidance for members of staff who are uncertain whether they need to take action.

It is important for staff to note that a breach of the Consensual Relationships Policy could lead to action under the Disciplinary Policy.

For further details and advice, visit:

• HR Policies: Consensual Relationships Policy (MS Word, 106KB)