Domestic abuse

Domestic abuse can affect anyone regardless of gender, sexuality, age, culture or background

It is a pattern of behaviour where one person gains power and control over another. Abuse can occur in intimate relationships (past or present) or within families.

It may happen as a single incident or over a period of time, and it can take many forms, including:

Speak out and support

You can share what happened in whichever of these two ways feels most comfortable for you.

To arrange an appointment with one of our advisers, please complete our online form. You may choose how much information you wish to share, and accessing support does not require making a formal report. Alternatively, you can choose to report anonymously.

Complete form

Report anonymously

If you are having difficulty completing the form, please email studentcases@ucb.ac.uk.

Support for students

If you or someone you know is in immediate danger or has been seriously injured, call 999 right away. 

If something has just happened and you feel unsafe, try to get to a secure location. If you're on campus, speak to a member of staff immediately - they can help you contact emergency services or the Safeguarding Team.

Support following sexual violence or domestic abuse

If you’ve experienced sexual violence or domestic abuse and need immediate, specialist support, you can contact a Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC).

Horizon SARC (Birmingham)

Horizon is a local, confidential service for anyone who has experienced sexual assault or rape. Their trained staff offer emotional support and, where appropriate, forensic medical examinations. You can also speak with a Crisis Worker about your options, including support, whether or not you choose to involve the police.

Please note: Forensic self-swabbing kits are not a recommended alternative to visiting a SARC. Professional support ensures evidence is collected safely, and your wellbeing is prioritised.

Support at University College Birmingham

We know it can be difficult to speak out, but you don’t have to go through this alone. UCB offers compassionate, person-centred support for any student affected by domestic abuse or sexual violence.

If you or someone else is vulnerable or at risk, please contact our Safeguarding Team: safeguarding@ucb.ac.uk. All concerns are handled confidentially and sensitively.

Reporting options

You can use UCB’s internal support routes to make a disclosure and speak with a trained advisor. They’ll help you understand your options - whether you need emotional support, academic adjustments, practical advice, or help creating a safety plan.

You are in control of what happens next. Making a disclosure does not automatically trigger disciplinary action unless you request it. You can self-refer via Target Connect. If you have any questions, you can speak to an adviser at studentcases@ucb.ac.uk.

University College Birmingham Reporting via Target Connect

You can now report an incident using UCB’s reporting tool. This platform allows you to make a report with your name or you can submit one anonymously, and you can indicate whether or not you would like any further action taken. Using this tool does not automatically trigger a formal complaint - it's your choice how you wish to proceed.

Through Target Connect, you can also request support from UCB’s Sexual Harassment and Misconduct Service. Our trained staff are here to listen and help you explore your options in a confidential and non-judgmental space. This may include accessing wellbeing support, academic adjustments, or formal processes.

You can also contact the service directly at studentcases@ucb.ac.uk.

Reporting to the police

If you are not in immediate danger but wish to report a crime, you can contact the police in the following ways:

Police forces have specially trained officers who deal with reports of domestic abuse and sexual violence and can support you through the process. If you are in immediate danger or seriously injured, always call 999.

Support without making a formal complaint

We understand that not everyone wants to make a formal report. UCB is committed to supporting you regardless of whether or not you choose to take formal action. You can:

Making a disclosure does not automatically trigger disciplinary procedures. You will be in control of what happens next.

If you decide to make a formal complaint

If you do wish to pursue a formal complaint through the University (e.g., in relation to another student or a member of staff), this process will follow UCB’s investigations procedure.

You can discuss the process first by emailing studentcases@ucb.ac.uk. We can help you understand what the process involves before making a formal submission.

If the incident has already been reported to the police, please include the following information in your email to support any university-based actions:

  • Crime Reference Number(s)
  • Name and course of the person you reported
  • Date(s) and location(s) of the incident(s)
  • A brief description of the incident (e.g., assault, harassment)

Mental Health and Wellbeing Support

At University College Birmingham, your mental health matters. We offer a range of support services to help you feel safe, supported, and heard.

Our Mental Health and Wellbeing Team includes qualified counsellors and advisers who can offer up to six one-to-one support sessions per term. This includes help with emotional wellbeing, mental health concerns, and coping strategies for challenges that may affect your studies or personal life.

To access this service, you can self-refer via the student portal.

24/7 Support: Student Assistance Programme

In addition to in-house support, students also have access to the Student Assistance Programme, a confidential 24/7 helpline offering:

  • Emotional support
  • Counselling
  • Legal and financial advice
  • Practical guidance for everyday challenges
  • This service is available day or night, 365 days a year.

Wisdom App

The Wisdom App gives you access to a wide range of mental health and wellbeing resources, including self-help tools, guided meditations, and wellbeing articles - all at your fingertips.

Please find the app downloadable from your app marketplace. Find out more.

External specialist services

Here are some trusted organisations that offer expert support:

Domestic Abuse and Sexual Violence

LGBT+ Support

Men’s Support

Stalking and Harassment

Apps for Support and Safety

  • Bright Sky App - Offers information, safety planning tools, and support resources for anyone affected by domestic abuse.

More help from the local authority

Supporting someone who has been subjected to domestic abuse

Supporting someone who has experienced domestic abuse or any form of harm can be challenging. This may be a confusing and emotional time for both of you, and it’s not always easy to know what to say or do. At UCB, we’re committed to making sure everyone feels supported and knows where to seek help. If you're concerned about another student’s wellbeing or safety, it's important to encourage them to reach out for support, whether through UCB services or trusted external organisations.

If you’re unsure how to help or would like to talk to someone in confidence, you can contact UCB’s Sexual Harassment and Misconduct Service at: studentcases@ucb.ac.uk You can also make a report on their behalf - with their permission - using our reporting tool.

If you believe someone is in immediate danger, always call 999.

Please keep in mind: if you're sharing any concerns or details about someone else, especially if they are experiencing abuse, it’s important they are aware - unless it's an emergency or a safeguarding risk.

Ways you can support a fellow student

Here are some helpful ways to be there for someone who may have experienced abuse or harm:

  • Believe them. One of the most powerful things you can do is listen and believe what they tell you. Try to remain calm, supportive and avoid making judgments.
  • Avoid giving direct advice. Let them lead the conversation and make their own choices. Your role is to empower them, not to decide for them.
  • Don’t ask “why” questions. Asking why the abuse happened can unintentionally sound like blame. Abuse is never the victim’s fault - only the perpetrator is responsible.
  • Be patient. They may not be ready to talk. Simply being present and available without pressure is already a meaningful form of support.
  • Look after yourself. Supporting someone through trauma can affect your own wellbeing. Don’t hesitate to seek support for yourself, whether through UCB services or a trusted person.
  • Encourage professional help. If they are considering leaving an abusive situation, please be aware that this can be one of the most dangerous times for them. Gently encourage them to speak with trained professionals who can help plan this safely.

If you're ever unsure, the Safeguarding Team is also available to support vulnerable students or those at risk: safeguarding@ucb.ac.uk

You’re not alone in supporting others, and it’s okay to ask for help too.

Useful resources

Back to top