Our Code of Conduct: Creating a safe, respectful and supportive university together

This page is here to help you understand what the Student Code of Conduct is, why it matters, and how the University of Salford supports you if concerns arise. We know that university life can be exciting, challenging, and sometimes overwhelming. Our approach is grounded in care, fairness, and understanding. We aim to listen first, support where we can, and act proportionately when needed.

Our shared values

Our community is built on a small number of important values. These guide how we treat one another and how decisions are made:

Dignity

Everyone deserves to feel valued, heard, and treated with kindness.

Respect

We listen to one another, include different perspectives, and celebrate difference.

Care

We look out for each other and for our shared spaces, especially when someone may be struggling.

Integrity

We act honestly, take responsibility for our actions, and engage with university processes in good faith.

Who the code of conduct applies to

The Code of Conduct applies to all students registered with the University, including:

Students studying on campus, on placement, or abroad
Apprentices
Students at partner institutions using University of Salford procedures
Elected Students’ Union officers
Students living in Campus Living Villages
Students who are also members of staff

It applies across many spaces, including:

On campus
Online and on social media
In accommodation
In the local community
During any university-related activity

What good conduct looks like in practice

Good conduct is about more than rules; it’s about how our actions affect others. Examples include:

Respect for people

Valuing different backgrounds, experiences, and identities
Listening to others’ views, even when they differ from your own
Seeking consent before acting

Example: Asking before recording a group discussion or sharing someone’s work.

Safety and responsibility

Acting in ways that keep yourself and others safe
Looking after university spaces and resources

Example: Reporting hazards in labs, teaching spaces, or accommodation.

Integrity and honesty

Following university policies and the law
Using systems, information, and learning materials appropriately

Example: Not sharing course materials or personal data without permission

When behaviour may fall short

We recognise that people can sometimes act out of character, particularly during periods of stress, anxiety, or crisis. Where appropriate, the University may focus on support rather than discipline, for example through the Support for Study process.

However, some behaviours may breach the Code of Conduct, particularly where they cause harm or risk to others. These can include:

Harassment, bullying, or discriminatory behaviour
Acting without consent
Threatening, abusive, or intimidating language or actions
Damage to property or misuse of systems or information
Behaviour that puts others at risk
Serious dishonesty or fraud

This list is not exhaustive, and each situation is considered carefully and in context.

How concerns are handled

If a concern is raised, the University will:

Listen and review the information shared
Consider safety, wellbeing, and impact on everyone involved
Decide the most appropriate pathway, which may include conduct procedures, fitness to practise processes, or supportive interventions
Act proportionately and fairly, taking individual circumstances into account

Possible outcomes can range from guidance and support, through to formal warnings or restrictions, and in serious cases suspension or expulsion. Support is offered alongside these processes wherever possible.

Support is available

You do not have to manage concerns alone – whether something has happened to you, you are worried about someone else, or you are unsure what to do next.

Support options include:

askUS
Wellbeing and Counselling Services
Disability Inclusion Service
Academic advisers

If you are unsure which service is right for you, askUS can help guide you.

Read our Code of Conduct

Frequently asked questions

What counts as misconduct?

Misconduct is behaviour that falls below the standards we expect within the University community and that may cause harm, distress, or risk to others. This can include things like harassment, bullying, discrimination, threatening or abusive behaviour, acting without consent, damage to property, misuse of university systems, or behaviour that puts others’ safety at risk.

We recognise that people can sometimes act out of character, particularly during times of stress or difficulty. Each concern is considered carefully, in context, and with a focus on fairness, wellbeing, and proportionality.

Can something that happened off campus be considered?

Yes. In some circumstances, behaviour that happens off campus or online can be considered under the Code of Conduct. This includes behaviour in the local community, in accommodation, on social media, or during any activity connected to the University.

We will only look at off‑campus behaviour where it has an impact on the safety, wellbeing, dignity, or rights of others, or where it affects the University community or its reputation. Each situation is assessed individually and carefully.

What should I do if I’m worried about a friend?

If you’re worried about a friend, you don’t have to handle it alone. You can talk to them and encourage them to seek support, or you can reach out to the University yourself if you’re concerned about their safety or wellbeing.

You can contact askUS for guidance on the right support services or use Report it if you’re worried about someone’s behaviour or about something that has happened. Raising a concern is about care and support, not getting someone “in trouble”.

Will I get in trouble for reporting something?

No. You will not get in trouble for raising a concern in good faith. We understand that coming forward can feel difficult, and we aim to respond with care, respect, and sensitivity.

Reporting something helps us understand what’s happening and decide whether support, guidance, or further action is needed. Your wellbeing and safety, and that of others, are always central to how we respond.

How do I appeal a decision?

If a formal decision has been made under the student conduct process, you will be told whether you have the right to appeal and how to do so. Appeals usually need to be based on specific grounds, such as new information or concerns about how a decision was reached.

You’ll be given clear information about the process, timescales, and where to get advice and support. The Students’ Union Advice Centre can help you understand your options and support you through this.