The aim of the new contact point is the lowest possible threshold for tackling cross-border behaviour. Photo Lynn Kintziger via Unsplash ‘Inappropriate behaviour should have consequences’, said ombudsperson Jacqueline Schoone in a recent edition of Resource. In that interview, she also announced a new, low-threshold contact point because there is still some confusion about where students or staff can turn to.
That contact point is now operational for both students and employees that are faced with transgressive behaviour. Bystanders who witness or suspect inappropriate behaviour can also reach out, for example, to discuss what they can do to protect the victim or help stop the behaviour. If you prefer to remain anonymous, no problem. You can reach out anonymously to keep the threshold as low as possible.
The contact point is available for initial advice and a listening ear. It will then refer you to more specialised help or follow-up actions, such as a formal complaint for those who want to take further steps. The contact point is also available for people who ‘merely’ wish to share their stories. The main goal is to save employees and students facing misconduct or other integrity issues from having to figure out what department or person can best help them. The existing service points remain operational, and those who prefer can contact the appropriate service point directly.
Knowledgeable
The contact point is staffed by ombudsperson Jacqueline Schoone, social safety coordinator Joyce van der Velde, safety coordinator Wietse Willebrands and Rutger Kroes of the Student Service Center. Thus, there is always someone knowledgeable available. ‘Because we know how precarious and painful inappropriate behaviour can be’, says Van der Velde. The contact point can be reached through socialsafety@wur.nl and phone number +31 317 481 774.
