The University has launched a new Dignity and Respect policy at the VC Open Forum.

Adam Tickell, Vice Chancellor said: “This policy is something I have wanted us to develop since I joined Sussex and it complements our core values of kindness, integrity, inclusion, collaboration and courage that we set out in Sussex 2025 and that we seek to embody in all we do.”

“It is an opportunity to reset expectations about what behaviours are expected and how we handle unacceptable behaviour. 

“Dignity and respect is everyone’s right and everyone’s responsibility and is fundamental to campus life as it affects every one of us.”

This new policy has been spearheaded by Claire Annesley, Deputy Pro-Vice Chancellor, Equalities and Diversity, supported by colleagues from across the University.

Claire Annesley said: “Thank you to everyone who has been involved in producing this policy so far.

“This policy is not just a document; it’s all about us bringing about a positive culture change here at Sussex and everyone has got a role to play.”

The policy sets out that:

• The University takes a zero tolerance approach to all forms of discrimination, bullying and harassment, and violence
• All allegations of discrimination, bullying, harassment and violence will be dealt with and treated as a serious matter
• Disciplinary action will be taken if necessary
• Our community know what behaviours are expected of them
• We will monitor and review our performance on promoting dignity and respect, and the effectiveness of this policy on an ongoing basis
• We will hold ourselves to account with an annual assurance report provided to Council

There are a number of ways to find out more about the policy and get involved: via the new Dignity and Respect web pages; learn more about our new dignity champion roles, complete the online Diversity in the Workplace training, and have discussions about dignity and respect in your teams.

Adam added: “A huge thank you to Claire Annesley for her work on this policy.

“Getting us to where we are today is an important step change for Sussex and we are really keen that everyone understands the policy as much as possible and the role they can play in nurturing a culture of dignity and respect on an everyday basis.

“During this next week Claire will be holding a number of lunchtime presentation and Q&A sessions where you can hear more about the policy and ask any questions.

“This is an important moment for the university and progress towards positive culture change.”

In addition to the sessions this week, there will be two events in November to find out more about the new dignity champions role.

 Key dates:

• October 22 - presentation and Q&A sessions with Claire - 12:00 to 13:00, Shawcross A202
• October 24 - presentation and Q&A sessions with Claire - 12:00 to 13:00. Arts C133
• November 18 - Find out more about becoming a Dignity Champion, 12:00 to 13:00, Fulton 212
• November 20 - Find out more about becoming a Dignity Champion, 12:00 to 13:00, Jubilee 144

 Video link: Claire Annesley explains the importance of the policy and how you can get involved.