Encouraging respectful relationships

Everyone at UTS has a role in maintaining a productive and harmonious working and learning environment. All members of the UTS community (including students, staff, contractors, volunteers and visitors) are expected to act in a civil and respectful manner at all times.

Respect and civility at UTS

Respect and civility are at the heart of the UTS Values which guide the performance and behaviour of members of the UTS community and reflect the distinctive positive UTS culture.

It is important that all within the UTS community aim to treat each other as they would like to be treated - fairly and with respect. Harassment, discrimination and bullying conduct will not be tolerated.

Encouraging respectful relationships does not aim to mask our differences, but rather it aims for tolerance, discussion and, where necessary, negotiation of differences in an open-minded and generous way.

The Working Relationships & Workload Checklist for Managers and Supervisors (PDF, 132Kb) contains practical, UTS-specific information on addressing the potential risks associated with working relationships.

While civility and respect encourage conversation to settle disputes, it does not mean giving up your rights to seek assistance or file complaints as a student or staff member where this may be neccessary.

The positive UTS Values are embedded within the following UTS policies, directives and rules which set out expectations in relation to behaviours and actions that may be taken and behaviour that is considered to be inappropriate.

• Code of Conduct and Workplace Behaviour Statement which apply to staff and others engaged in work at UTS
• Equal Opportunity Policy
• Student and Related Rules and Student Charter apply to students.
• Expression and Practice of Religious, Political and Other Values, Beliefs and Ideas at UTS Policy, Procedures and Guidelines which applies to all members of the University community.

Who is responsible?

We are all responsible to act in a civil and respectful manner and in accordance with the policies, directives and rules referred to above.

Risk Management

Dealing with inappropriate, concerning or threatening behaviours

Sometimes a staff member or student may experience behaviour which they consider to be inappropriate. It is often possible to resolve these matters directly, by advising the person responsible for the behaviour that their behaviour is inappropriate and asking them to stop behaving in that way.

However, where this is not possible or appropriate, the student or staff member can take action to report that behaviour. Information for staff on how to do this is set out in the Workplace Behaviour Statement. Students should refer to the Policy on Handling Student Complaints.

If a situation involves concerning and threatening behaviours which represent a potentially serious risk to personal safety or security, the first priority is the immediate safety of everyone. Should this happen, you should contact Security by dialling "6" from an internal phone or 1800 249 559.

While some consideration of the motivation behind inappropriate, concerning and threatening behaviours might guide your response, it is important to remember that it is irrelevant until the immediate safety of everyone is restored.

Support at UTS

For all staff

The UTS Employee Assistance Program (EAP) provides confidential counseling, coaching and support for staff across a broad range of work and life issues. These include issues concerning relationships, family, conflict, drug and alcohol abuse, gambling, stress, communication, grief and loss, self-esteem and confidence. See the Employee Assistance Program page for more information.

For managers and supervisors

Your HR Partner can provide information, advice and support on staff and employment related matters.

Contact:

• HR Partnership Team, HRU

For students

Student Services provides counselling services at the City and Broadway campuses, as well as self-help resources.

Student Services (ext. 1060) also provides information to assist UTS staff in recommending appropriate support and referral pathways for students, ranging from those with everyday concerns to those experiencing serious disruption to study or eliciting high level concern about their behaviour or wellbeing.

How and when to report and refer for support (PDF, 44Kb).

Resources

• Working Relationships & Workload Checklist for Managers and Supervisors (PDF, 132Kb)
• Information regarding your wellbeing - from the Safety & Wellbeing branch