Glossary of definitions
A range of terminology is used throughout the reporting forms.
The definitions provided on this page are for illustrative purposes only and are not a definitive list. There is often overlap between definitions.
Offensive, intimidating, malicious or insulting behaviour, an abuse or misuse of power through means which have the purpose or effect of undermining, humiliating, denigrating or injuring the recipient. Bullying usually involves a repeated course of conduct, often in the context of a position of authority or status and may be in person, in writing and/or by electronic means.
Unwanted conduct related to a relevant protected characteristic [age, disability, gender reassignment, race, religion or belief, sex, sexual orientation] that has the purpose or effect of violating a person’s dignity or creating an intimidating, hostile, degrading, humiliating or offensive environment. The unwanted conduct can be physical, verbal or non-verbal.
A form of bullying and/or harassment that is carried out through the use of electronic media devices, such as computers, laptops, smartphones, tablets, or gaming consoles.
Sexual misconduct is a form of harassment and can include sexual harassment; sexual violence; intimate partner violence; assault, grooming, coercion or bullying with sexual elements; sexual invitations and demands, comments, non-verbal communication, creation of atmospheres of discomfort, and promised resources or advancement in exchange for sexual access.
Domestic abuse can be an incident or pattern of incidents of controlling, coercive, threatening behaviour, violence or abuse between people aged 16 and over, who are, or have been, intimate partners or family members regardless of gender or sexuality. This can include forced marriage, so-called ‘honour-based’ violence and ritual abuse.