Safety Reporting Policy
Policy
The purpose of this policy is to establish guidelines for students to report any safety concerns they may have while on campus. It aims to ensure a safe and secure environment for all members of the University of Dubai.
Student safety refers to the physical, mental, and emotional well-being of students. It includes but is not limited to the following:
-
Physical safety: Protection from harm, injury, or danger caused by accidents, violence, hazardous conditions, or unsafe practices.
-
Personal safety: Measures taken to prevent harassment, bullying, discrimination, or any form of misconduct that may negatively impact a student's well-being.
-
Mental health: Ensuring access to resources, support services, and accommodations to promote positive mental health and address any psychological distress or concerns.
-
Emotional well-being: Encouraging a nurturing and inclusive environment that fosters positive emotional development and supports students' emotional needs.
1. Reporting Process:
-
Anonymous Reporting: Students shall have the option to report safety concerns anonymously, without revealing their identities, to protect their privacy and encourage open disclosure. Anonymous reporting is ineffective when the person making the complaint is required to confront the individual being complained about.
-
Reporting: The student must send an email to DSS at dss@ud.ac.ae and include the following:
-
Description of the incident.
-
Date, time and location.
-
Nature of the concern: Explain the nature of the safety concern, whether it relates to physical safety, personal safety, mental health, or any other aspect of student well-being.
-
Parties involved: Identify any individuals involved or witnesses to the incident, if known. Provide their names, descriptions, or any other identifying information available.
-
Supporting evidence: If applicable, include any supporting evidence such as photographs, videos, emails, or any other documentation that can help in understanding the situation.
-
Student ID and contact information.
It is essential to provide accurate and factual information in the report. Including as much relevant detail as possible will assist in thoroughly evaluating and addressing the reported safety concern.
2. Handling and Response:
-
Confidentiality and Privacy: All reports of safety concerns shall be treated with the utmost confidentiality and handled in accordance with applicable privacy laws and regulations. Information shared by students will only be disclosed to individuals directly involved in the investigation or resolution of the reported concerns.
-
Timely Response: Upon receiving a report, appropriate personnel from DSS take necessary actions to address the concern within 48 hours. According to the nature of the report, it will be decided what actions to be taken according to UD’s policies.
-
Non-Retaliation: No student shall face retaliation or adverse consequences for reporting safety concerns in good faith. Any form of retaliation against a reporting student will be considered a violation of the UD Code of Conduct and may result in disciplinary actions against the responsible party.