Clearer managerial support in cases involving harassment and victimisation

Work on revising the procedures had already begun when the Vice-Chancellor decided on an external evaluation of the University's handling of misconduct. The evaluation recommended that the procedures should have a clearer focus on supporting managers with staff and work environment responsibilities. Information intended for employees and students is presented on the "If something happens" pages.

"I am pleased that the procedures are now in place so that our managers have good support in their work," says Heidi Hansson, Deputy Vice-Chancellor of Education and Equal Opportunities at Umeå University. "It has been an extensive process with many dialogues and rewarding discussions."

The procedures are primarily intended for managers with staff and work environment responsibilities. Among other things, it clarifies the division of responsibilities for investigating cases, and describes the role of the university-wide team investigating harassment and sexual harassment. Furthermore, the role of the Human Resources Office in investigations and how the office should support managers in these types of cases has become clearer.

"This is a step in continuing the important work of making the university a safe place to study and work," says Heidi Hansson.

Procedures to support managers when handling victimisation, harassment or sexual harassment will apply from 20 May 2022 and will be available in the legal framework regulations. The procedures will be available in English shortly.

Read the Procedures to support managers when handling victimisation, harassment, or sexual harassment.