This policy applies to all alumni and non-alumni friends of the University of Bristol, whilst engaging with the University through programmes, events, communications, and digital platforms either in person, online, by email, phone or any other communication methods.

1.      Introduction

1.1 The University of Bristol hopes that all alumni will find value and relevance in staying closely connected with the University and that they will, in turn, be inspired to play an active role in the institution’s continuing success.

1.2 The University of Bristol promotes a respectful, diverse, and inclusive culture.

1.3 The University is committed to providing a positive working and learning environment that enriches lives and where everyone is treated with respect and dignity.  This commitment stretches to all alumni and non-alumni friends of the University of Bristol, whilst engaging with the University through programmes, events, communications, and digital platforms.

1.4 We expect alumni and non-alumni friends of the Development and Alumni Relations Office (DARO) or their partner entities, such as the Careers Service or academic Schools and Faculties, when engaging with the University, including at events, while participating in programmes, and in all digital and print communications organised or supported by DARO, including those led by alumni themselves and by other functions of the University, to be aware of their own behaviour and how it impacts on others. All are expected to conduct themselves in a reasonable and acceptable manner.

1.5 By engaging with the University in these ways, individuals agree to adhere to these expectations, to ensure a safe, harassment-free, and respectful environment for everybody.

2.      Our code of conduct

2.1 Unacceptable behaviour may involve actions, words or physical gestures that are experienced as inappropriate, unreasonable, or offensive and could reasonably be perceived to be the cause of another person’s distress or discomfort. Unacceptable behaviour can take forms including face-to-face interaction, written, telephone or email communication, or communication via a digital platform, including social media, Bristol Connects, and video conferencing software.

2.2 Examples of unacceptable behaviours include, but are not limited to:

• Bullying, harassment, or unacceptable behaviour on the grounds of sex, race, religion or belief, disability, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, age or any of the protected characteristics defined in the Equality Act 2010
• Inappropriate language or the sharing of inappropriate images, including in talks and presentations
• Deliberate intimidation, including, but not limited to, following another individual, in person or online, making repeated and/or unreasonable demands, taking photographs of an individual or group or recording another individual without permission
• Deliberate disruption of physical or digital events
• Inappropriate or unwanted physical or sexual attention or contact
• Aggressive or abusive behaviour, whether in person, online or on the phone
• Spreading malicious rumours or gossip
• Misuse of power or position, including overbearing supervision. 

2.3 If an individual is asked by a member of University of Bristol staff or others participating in University programmes to stop engaging in behaviour that has been identified as in breach of our conduct expectations, we expect them to comply immediately. 

2.4 If an individual has engaged in behaviour identified as in breach of our conduct expectations, the co-ordinators of the activity and/or University staff may take immediate action that they deem appropriate, including issuing a verbal warning, ending a phone call, limiting further contact to written communication only, requiring the individual to leave an event, programme, or activity, or, in the most extreme cases, contacting relevant authorities and taking any other action considered appropriate.

2.5 If you have concerns about the conduct of a member of the Bristol alumni community towards you or another person, in the context of engagement with the University, please contact DARO. We will be happy to assist with your concerns.

2.6 All instances of alleged unacceptable behaviour will be dealt with in line with the University’s Problem-Solving Process for Alumni.

2.7 Alumni who volunteer for the University are expected to adhere to additional expectations for conduct: these are detailed in the 'Bristol Volunteers Handbook' and the 'Partnership working terms between alumni groups and DARO'.

DARO contact information