COMMUNITY LIVING HANDBOOK

IN PARTNERSHIP WITH CONTENTS

Welcome to the Community 4 A Message from the Students’ Union 5 Noise Disturbance 6 On Street Drinking 7 PSNI Powers for Tackling Antisocial Behaviour 8 AccessNI and Fitness to Practise 9 Social Media 10 Drugs and Alcohol 11 Hate Crime 12 Safe and Healthy Relationships 13 PSNI Safety Advice 14 Tenancy Issues 16 Be Clean, Be Green 18 Travel and Parking 22 Making a Positive Impact 24 Community Volunteering 25 Get involved in the Community 28 SUPPORTING Student Guidance and Support 31 STUDENTS IN Student Wellbeing Service 32 Disability 33 THE COMMUNITY Students’ Union Support 34 University Colleges 36 Belfast Metropolitan College 37 The Student Charter 38 University Conduct Regulations-Key Points 40 Paying a Fine or AEI workshop Fee 45 What to do if You Receive Notice of a Complaint 46 Key Contacts 48

2 Community Living Handbook Community Living Handbook 3 Welcome to the Community A Message from the Students’ Union

The area around the University is diverse, Complaints can lead to fines, a disciplinary Whether you’re Each year we hear so many inspiring with a variety of ages, nationalities, record and, in severe cases, suspension, brand new to stories of our students getting involved ethnicities, family structures and professions expulsion and/or a police record. This South Belfast or in and contributing to the South Belfast sharing the neighbourhood with students. can have implications for employability have lived here community. We know that they get so This makes it a vibrant area to live in. and other future opportunities. all your life, you’ll much out of it in return that they continue know that it is a long after they have graduated! At times, differing needs, lifestyles This handbook has been created to support brilliant and unique and perceptions can lead to issues you living in the local community. It includes place to live, Whatever your skills, talents or interests, between neighbours. Learning to information on laws and regulations you work and study. there’s something for you! Find out all about manage such differences is not always should be aware of, local services, and what the Students’ Union can offer at easy, but is an important life skill. support available if things don’t go to plan. Perfectly positioned a short walk from www.qubsu.org the city centre, the area is home to: great One of the issues most commonly It also highlights opportunities available at open-air green spaces including Ormeau Katie Ní Chléire raised by people living in the local Queen’s and in the local area. Get involved Park and Botanic Gardens; attractions such Students’ Union President neighbourhood is night-time noise. in the community and transform it for the as the Ulster Museum and Gallery; and food, benefit of all who live here, including you. bars and culture from all over the world. While disturbing the neighbours is often unintended, it can create stress for people The Public Engagement Team who have to get children to sleep, get up Our community is what we THE for work in the morning, or just want to Lisburn Road MBC enjoy some peace and quiet in their home. make it, let’s make it one we’re proud to call home. This should be taken seriously as it impacts on health, as well as local community relations. The Queen’s Quarter is truly one of the Lisburn Road most diverse areas of the city, home not only to students but to people and 2 STUDENTS’ families of all ages, cultures, ethnicities, UNION nationalities and backgrounds. LISBURN ROAD

All of this can help to make your student years here some of the best of your life but also brings an understanding that we Elmwood Avenue all have to take responsibility for making 1 STUDENTS’ our community a great place to be. ELMWOOD UNION HALL ELMWOOD SU Shop / The Lounge Fortunately, there are many fun and Student Officers / Student Voice Clubs & Societies / Advice SU Enterprise SU / Volunteer SU rewarding ways to get involved with Bookable Rooms the local community that will help you University Road to develop lifelong skills, make friends and give something back – whether it’s Dee Corbett Ryan Rankin Amy Mulvenna Stephen Jones through our Volunteer SU and Clubs and Community Community Community Joint University WHITLA THE Societies, or one of the many community HALL LANYON BUILDING Engagement Manager Engagement Officer Engagement and Colleges organisations in the local area that offer a Administrator Neighbourhood wide range of opportunities to volunteer. Officer

4 Community Living Handbook Community Living Handbook 5 Noise Disturbance On Street Drinking

The majority of complaints received by the Remember a speaker will only amplify noise It is a criminal offence to drink on the University regarding student off-campus and increase your chances of breaching street in most areas of Belfast (including behaviour relate to noise at night. the Student Conduct Regulations. Botanic Gardens, the Holyland and greater University areas). Enjoy your student days, but remember Remember some people will be trying to you are living among people with different get children to sleep earlier than this, and Authorised Council Officers and the PSNI lifestyles, which include young families, older noise at any time of day can be a nuisance can prosecute anyone caught drinking in people, people who have to work early in the if it occurs regularly and/or is excessive. the street. morning. The Student Conduct Regulations The PSNI will often deal with issues when apply at all times and not just after 11pm. the Noise Team are not available. Anyone over 18 caught If you are reported for a noise disturbance drinking in these areas will before 11pm you may have breached the Think of the neighbours when be reported for prosecution Conduct Regulations so keep noise to a you’re walking home from a night and may be fined up to reasonable level and respect your neighbours. out to avoid waking people up. £500.

The Noise Team If calling out taxis late at night, ask The Council have powers to deal with the taxi to alert you by text when they noisy neighbours. Noise Control Officers arrive rather than beeping the horn. respond to noise complaints all year round. They actively patrol the University Build a positive relationship with area at particular times of the year. They your neighbours and resolve issues respond to complaints made to the noise directly where possible. hotline from 8pm until 4am each night. Noise Hotline If someone is making excessive noise, If noise is affecting you, call the noise the Noise Control Officers will serve a hotline (Monday to Sunday, 8pm- 4am) Warning Notice. If the noise continues on 028 9037 3006, or email and is above the permitted level a Fixed [email protected] Penalty Notice of £110 fine will be issued.

This is an effective remedy on the night. However if the noise persists the Council IF NOISE IS AFFECTING YOU, can consider serving a section 65 notice under the Clean Neighbourhoods and CALL THE NOISE HOTLINE Environment (NI) Act 2011. A breach of this notice can lead to a criminal record.

The Council can also seize noise-making equipment, such as laptops, docking stations, mp3 players, amplifiers and speakers.

How to Avoid Fines Keep music down and windows and doors closed to avoid disturbing neighbours especially after 11pm.

6 Community Living Handbook Community Living Handbook 7 PSNI Powers for Tackling Antisocial Behaviour

In addition to the legal powers of the Full details of Fixed Penalty Notices are Council, the PSNI have powers to tackle available at https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/ antisocial behaviour. articles/police-issued-penalty-notices

Fixed Penalty Notices Community Resolution Notices Fixed penalty notices (FPNs) can be issued by The police may also issue you with a police and allow low-level antisocial behaviour Community Resolution Notice (CRN). to be dealt with on the spot rather than offenders having to automatically go through CRNs are usually used for first offences of the court process. low level crime or antisocial behaviour where AccessNI and Fitness to Practise genuine remorse has been expressed and Police officers have the power to issue where the victim has agreed that they do not penalty notices of £45 or £85 for: want the police to take more formal action. They also allow the police to give the victim • indecent behaviour (only for a greater say in how the offender is dealt Having a disciplinary or police record A check may also include disclosure of other urination in the street) with and to help the offender understand can have consequences for your non-conviction information, sometimes • drunk in a public place the impact of their actions on the victim. education and future employability. called soft intelligence, such as PSNI • disorderly behaviour For example, it might involve an apology or Fixed Penalty Notices and cautions. • behaviour likely to cause a payment to cover damage. AccessNI breach of the peace Access NI supplies criminal history Fitness to Practise • obstructing police Community Resolution Notices are not information, upon request, to organisations • criminal damage (up to a value of £200) recorded on the Police National Computer and individuals, primarily to help them Students on programmes leading directly into • theft (shoplifting up to a value of System, but could be recorded on PSNI make safer recruitment decisions. professions (for example, medicine, dentistry, £100, where the stolen goods have systems. As with FPNs, they may be disclosed nursing and midwifery, psychology, teaching, been recovered and are still in a good as part of an enhanced disclosure issued by Employers commonly use an AccessNI pharmacy, professional legal training, enough condition to be resold, or AccessNI when you are applying for a job check as part of the recruitment process. health and leisure) are subject to academic, the retailer has been compensated) or voluntary position, if deemed recent and behavioural and health requirements which relevant. Full details are found at must be met to ensure suitability to practise. What to do if you are offered a penalty http://go.qub.ac.uk/ACCESSNI notice For further information, see If you accept a penalty notice you must pay it www.qub.ac.uk/directorates/ within the time specified, or you may decline AcademicStudentAffairs/ the offer of a penalty, in which case the police AcademicAffairs/StudentGuidance/ officer involved will consider another course FitnesstoPractise-AStudentGuide/ of action, which may result in prosecution. Even if you are not studying for one of A penalty notice will not give you a criminal these professions, all students should be record. However, these penalty notices are What an AccessNI check includes aware that many employers will take into recorded on the PSNI computer system and account your past behaviour when you’re may be disclosed as part of an enhanced An AccessNI check will let an employer know applying for jobs and placements. disclosure issued by AccessNI when you are if you have been convicted of a criminal applying for a job or voluntary position. offence or are barred from working with children or other vulnerable groups.

8 Community Living Handbook Community Living Handbook 9 Social Media Drugs and Alcohol

Social Media Policy for Students • Regardless of your privacy As a student at Queen’s, you are settings,assume anything you put required to adhere to the Social online may become public. Would you Media Policy when posting or sharing publish it in a national newspaper? comments or content online. Connect with respect The aim of the policy is to help you • Don’t post anything online that could use social media in a way that is cause others offence or embarrassment. professional, ethical and legal. • Respect the privacy of others and ask for permission before sharing images of them. Careless use of social media could damage • Don’t show support for offensive your reputation and employment prospects views by liking or sharing them. and result in disciplinary action or legal proceedings, so make sure that you check Clean up your ‘digital dirt’ out the Policy and the accompanying • Remove any offensive comments or Social Media Guide for Students at: references to excessive drinking, drugs http://go.qub.ac.uk/socialmedia or illegal activities from online profiles. • Review photos or updates that Managing Your Online Reputation you’ve been tagged in. • If someone posts something that could What does your reflect negatively on you, send a polite online behaviour say about you? request asking them to remove it. Every time you share information, photos or videos on sites like Facebook, Twitter or For further advice on how to be Instagram, you are contributing to the image Cybersmart, check out QUB’s film at: Drugs and Alcohol Support Services of you that is portrayed online. Whilst some www.qub.ac.uk/cybersmart social media sites offer privacy settings, information posted to these sites can still Northern Ireland Belfast Area be easily shared and often becomes public. Anyone, including family, friends and potential employers, can find this information and Addiction NI ASCERT may use it to make judgements about you. Centres located in South, East and West A charity that has been providing services Belfast and treat people from all over NI across Northern Ireland to reduce alcohol and How can you protect your online Tel: 028 9066 4434 drug related harm. reputation? Email: [email protected] Tel: 0800 254 5123 Take some time to consider how your online behaviour could reflect on your reputation. FRANK EXTERN Tel: 0300 123 6600 Holistic health and wellbeing service for Think before you share TXTel: 82111 young people aged 11 - 25 • Before posting comments, images or Extern videos online, think carefully about whether LIFELINE Tel: 028 9084 0555 they could have a negative impact on Tel: 0808 808 8000 your reputation – now or in the future. Community Support: DACT Connections Service Tel: 028 9084 0555 Email: [email protected]

10 Community Living Handbook Community Living Handbook 11 Hate Crime Safe and Healthy Relationships

A hate crime is an incident motivated by to contact the police directly, you may do so Queen’s University is committed to providing Consent Conversations prejudice on the grounds of the victim’s through a third party or report on line via the a safe campus for everyone. We are keen to Sexual Consent means everyone agreeing by ethnicity, sexual orientation, religion, gender Police Service of Northern Ireland website or support all students develop and maintain choice and having the freedom and capacity identity, political opinion and/or disability. any one of the organisations listed on their safe & healthy relationships. This includes a to make that choice. Consent conversations Hate crimes can take many forms, including: website https:// www.psni.police.uk/crime/ zero tolerance policy on sexual misconduct, take place across the year and give students hate-crime/ bullying, harassment and hate crime. the opportunity to have informed discussions • Verbal abuse/intimidation and harassment about consent in a safe and informal way. both in person and online Support for Students Students will be supported whether they • Physical assault which can include; are reporting or responding to allegations Bystander Training punching, slapping, hair pulling, biting, If you experience a hate crime or incident, of misconduct, regardless if the incident Bystander training uses burning, hitting, choking or kicking advice and support is also available from occurred on or off campus and if it is recent a community response • Criminal damage to property the University through a dedicated online or non-recent. to help people recognise reporting tool as well as assistance from incidents of unwanted The PSNI has appointed Neighbourhood support services. Under the University Conduct Regulations, behaviour such as sexual Policing Team Officers who have been misconduct is defined as any behaviour harassment or bullying specially trained to support victims of hate QUB Report & Support deemed improper and can bring the and empowers them to crime. https://reportandsupport.qub.ac.uk University into disrepute. This includes intervene safely and appropriately. acts of sexual misconduct such as sexual Reporting a Hate Crime Student Wellbeing assault, sexual touching without consent Email: [email protected] or inappropriate sexual comments. Other Here are some contacts you may find helpful: If you have been abused, threatened or Phone: 028 9097 2893 behaviours include bullying and harassment assaulted in any way, contact the police in (online and offline) and hate crime which • Student Wellbeing the normal manner and an officer will be Advice SU is prejudice based on a person’s religion, [email protected] appointed to investigate the case. Email: [email protected] ethnicity, sexual identity or disability. 028 9097 2893 • Emergency Services If you feel under immediate threat Call 999. Victim Support NI Report + Support 999 / 101 (non- emergency) 028 9024 3133 If you have been the affected by any of these • QUB Security If you do not require an immediate police issues we advise you seek help, you can report 028 9097 5099 response you should contact the police on the Hate Crime App this to the Police and/or University. The • 24Hr Domestic & Sexual Violence Helpline non-emergency number 101 and ask for the University has an online reporting tool 0808 802 1414 police station of the area where the incident You can also download the free True Vision https://reportandsupport.qub.ac.uk where • The Rowan (Sexual Assault Referral Centre occurred. An officer from that area will be Hate Crime App for smartphones. The App students can request support and access for Northern Ireland) appointed to investigate the incident. can give basic information. Once a report has been 0800 389 4424 information about received, you will be contacted and offered • Women’s Aid The police recognise that some people, for what a hate crime is a 1-1 appointment with a Safe & Healthy 028 9066 6049 whatever reason, may be reluctant to report and can link directly Relationship Advocate. These are specially • Nexus (Sexual Abuse NI counselling this type of incident to them. If the police to an online facility trained staff who can help you with practical service) are to prevent hate-motivated incidents and to report hate supports, reasonable adjustments i.e. 028 9032 6803 make those responsible accountable to the crime and incidents accommodation, education or can signpost • Victim Support NI law, they must be reported. Even if you do not directly to the you to specialist services i.e. Rowan, NEXUS, 028 9024 3133 wish the police to investigate the incident, it is police force where Victim Support. important to report it for information to have the crime took the incident recorded. place. Educational Initiatives Throughout the year, the University organises If applicable, the police can arrange for an events on related themes such as Consent interpreter to assist you. If you do not wish Conversations and Bystander Training.

12 Community Living Handbook Community Living Handbook 13 PSNI Safety Advice for Students

Be Safe when Socialising Research has indicated that some of the issues that cause the most concern to local residents are:

• Drinking alcohol in public places. The area around the campus is designated an Alcohol Free Zone. • Urinating in public. • Yelling, shouting or singing in the street. • Interfering with public/private property. • Damage to telephone kiosks and parked cars.

It is worth noting that you may be committing an offence, punishable with a substantial fine, if you engage in any of the above behaviour.

Keep Your Identity Safe Be Safe on the Street Useful Contacts

• Never answer emails or click on links or Whether you walk, run, cycle or drive, the If you are in pubs or clubs: Police 101 popups asking for your personal or bank following simple precautions will help keep • Avoid going to a pub, club or party alone. In an emergency, always call 999 account details. you safe: • Do not leave bags, coats or mobile phones • Check your bank statements as soon as you • Avoid short cuts and isolated areas. unattended. Email [email protected] get them. Contact your bank if you see a • Stay away from confrontational situations. • NEVER leave your drink unattended and (for reporting antisocial behaviour, welfare purchase listed which you don’t remember • Keep valuables hidden from view. NEVER accept a drink from someone you issues or minor queries) making. • Carry a personal attack alarm. do not know or trust. Nexus 028 9032 6803 • Destroy old credit card or bank statements, • Always use a known taxi firm or student • Do not drink from large open containers (victims of sexual abuse) as well as receipts containing your card transport if available. such as punchbowls. details. • Avoid lonely bus stops or quiet areas of • If you begin to feel drunk, dizzy or The Samaritans Free phone 116 123 • Do not place old statements in your train platforms. disorientated, seek help from a trusted Victim Support 028 9024 3133 recycling bin. • When parking a car use a well-lit area. friend or a member of the pub/club staff. • Take care when using an ATM or ‘Chip Do not drink and drive and do not accept a Women’s Aid 0808 802 1414 and Pin’. Shield the keypad when inputting Don’t be a victim of Burglary lift from anyone who has been drinking. For Student safety advice click here: your PIN. Check the ATM before using it. • Carry enough money for a taxi. If it looks different from how it normally • Close and lock all doors and windows even http://go.qub.ac.uk/Student-safety-advice appears, do not use it and report it to your if you are going out for a few minutes Please Remember bank. • Leave a light on if it will be dark before you get home. Consider security lights. To a The area surrounding the campus is burglar, a dark house is an empty house. residential. • Keep your valuables out of sight. • Don’t leave car keys near your door, • Be Considerate. letterbox or window. • Be Respectful. • Always check who is at the door. Not sure? • Be Quiet. Don’t open it • Be Tidy. • Report suspicious activity on 101

14 Community Living Handbook Community Living Handbook 15 Tenancy Issues

It’s important that you know your www.tdsnorthernireland.com/ rights and responsibilities when living www.mydepositsni.co.uk/ in private rented accommodation. www.lettingprotectionni.com/ Have a read of the Ready to Rent Guide from Advice SU in the Students’ Union, Visitors which you can find here:https://www. qubsu.org/AdviceSU/Accommodation/ • You are responsible for any visitors. HouseHunting/ or email • Make sure you trust them and can [email protected] for further info. keep them under control. • Avoid ‘gate crashers’ by keeping Here are some key issues to look out for: the front door closed. • Don’t give out keys to non-tenants. Tenancy Deposit Scheme • Check your responsibilities under the Tenancy Agreement, as many landlords If you are renting private accommodation and estate agents will include clauses your landlord will probably ask you about having visitors, subletting, hosting to pay a tenancy deposit – this is an parties, looking after the inside and amount of money paid to a landlord as outside of the house, not being a nuisance protection, for example, against damages to neighbours, rubbish, noise etc. to the property or for unpaid rent. • stairways and escape routes are • contact telephone numbers, including Houses of Multiple Occupancy (HMO) maintained free from obstruction; emergency out of hours contact number; By law, your landlord must protect • carbon monoxide alarms are installed • emergency information (this must also your tenancy deposit in a government When you decide on a house, you • chimneys and flues cleaned annually; be displayed clearly and prominently approved Tenancy Deposit Scheme should check the house is a registered • inspection records and tests are in the accommodation). within 14 days of receiving it. HMO. If you live in a property with maintained;furniture is kept in a safe more than two people who are not from condition and proper working order; For more information: Landlords must also notify the tenant the same family, your house must be • security arrangements are in place; Email: [email protected] where, and how, that deposit has been registered as an HMO by the landlord. • heating is provided throughout Tel: 028 9027 0414 protected within 28 days of receiving it. If living accommodation; Web: www.belfastcity.gov.uk/nihmo the required notification is not provided Full details can be found at: • the property has an Energy Performance to the tenant, the tenant should report it https://www.housingadviceni.org/advice- Certificate with a minimum E Landlord Registration Scheme as soon as possible to the Environmental private-tenants/shared-housing-HMO rating for energy efficiency. Health Department at their local council. By law, all private landlords must register All HMO Owners must have a license to More information on standards with the Department for Communities (DFC) At the end of the tenancy you should continue running their property as a HMO expected can be found here: Landlord Registration Scheme. You can check remember to ask for your deposit back. If you https://www.housingadviceni.org/advice- if your landlord or property is registered at do not agree with the amount your landlord All HMO landlords must ensure the private-tenants/HMO/standards-for-HMOs https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/services/search- wants to pay back to you – you can contact accommodation they provide is safe, of good for-a-landlord and if they’re not, you can the scheme administrator protecting your quality, and has suitable facilities for the HMO landlords must also give tenants report them to the Council to investigate. deposit and use their free dispute resolution number of occupants by making sure that: an information pack which includes: mechanism. Adjudicators will work with you Landlords must also provide tenants with a and your landlord to reach an agreement • all safety and maintenance certificates • a copy of the HMO license; rent book and a tenancy statement of terms. about the amount to be paid back to you. are valid and kept up to date; • copies of the current gas certificate, • electrics and electrical appliances electrical safety report and energy If you have an issue with your landlord The 3 scheme administrators are safe, maintained and in proper performance certificates refusing to carry out repairs or any other in Northern Ireland are: working order at all times; • advice on reporting antisocial behaviour; issue mentioned above, you can report • a list of tenant duties and responsibilities; it to the Council on 028 9027 0414.

16 Community Living Handbook Community Living Handbook 17 Be Clean, Be Green

Use your Bins to put your bins out for collection regularly The Council have litter wardens Go the extra mile! If you live in private, rented accommodation and don’t let rubbish build up to levels and enforcement officers all over within the University Area (e.g. Holylands, that present a health and safety risk. Also Belfast, checking for litter, graffiti, Why not volunteer for one of the Stranmillis or Lisburn Rd) you should have: remember to take your bins back to your littered gardens and land. community clean ups organised in the property as soon as possible after collection. University area throughout the year. • a black general waste bin They’ll be looking for offenders and have powers to issue fines. • black and red recycling boxes Clean Neighbourhoods Act For further information, contact The Clean Neighbourhoods Act became • a green food waste bin [email protected] • a brown food waste caddy law on 1 April 2012. To avoid fines: and food waste bags. • use litter bins; From this date: • Put all your household rubbish To request more food waste bags please in a bin for collection tie one of the bags to the handle of your • Anyone caught littering will be • don’t litter or graffiti streets; and green food waste bin. Food waste bags fined£80 . • keep gardens and yards tidy. are also available at Ormeau Recycling • Anyone caught fly posting will be Centre, Park Road (near Ormeau Park). fined£80 . For more information on anti-litter • Anyone caught defacing property initiatives and keeping your area tidy: A black bin should be provided by your with graffiti will be fined£80 . landlord. All other bins can be obtained • Anyone caught distributing free printed Tel: 028 9027 0230 free of charge from the Council. material such as leaflets and flyers in Email: [email protected] designated areas without the consent W: https://www.belfastcity.gov.uk/ Always leave your rubbish for collection of the council will be fined£80 . cleansingservices in a bin as you could be fined for leaving • If your garden or yard is littered you can rubbish in the entry or street. Remember be fined£110 . Download the app! ‘Bin-ovation’ is Belfast’s free bin app.

It lets you set up reminders to put your bin out for collection, check what can go in each kind of bin and box, report a lost or damaged bin, order new bins and boxes, arrange for bulky waste to be collected (e.g. old sofas or mattresses), report dumping, dog fouling, graffiti, noise, and more. Search on the Apple store or Google Play.

18 Community Living Handbook Community Living Handbook 19 Please leave your recycling boxes on Your the pavement in front of your property recycling boxes by 7am on your collection day. (collected every week) Please put the following items in your Please put the following items in your You can recycle all raw and cooked food waste in your Black recycling box Red recycling box Food waste caddy (except liquids).

Clean/dry Meat and fish Raw and Bread, cakes paper and All Clean/dry Glass bottles Cheese (including cooked fruit Flowers magazines plastic bottles Cardboard and jars bones) and vegetables and pastries

Potato and Takeaway Plastic pots, Food and Textiles Batteries Rice, beans Teabags and vegetable pizza boxes Any other tubs and trays drinks cans (in a separate bag) (in a separate bag) and pasta coffee grounds peelings (torn up) leftover food

If you have extra materials please How do I use my food caddy? use overflow bags. Only put one type Line your caddy with a Fill it with When it is full tie the of material in each biodegradable bag. food waste. bag tightly and put in Aerosols Aluminium foil Hand tools bag and do not put (Only use the bags we the green food waste (in a separate bag) glass in overflow supply in your food bin. bags. waste caddy)

Cartons If you need more food waste bags: Please do not put food waste in your general All of the above items are recyclable. Take care not to put them • Fix your tag or a food waste bag to your green food waste bin on your collection day, waste bin. Landfilling in your general waste bin. • Collect from your local recycling centre, or food waste costs twice Landfill costs approximately ten times more than recycling! • Call us on 0800 032 8100. as much as composting!

BCC2015-6pp Recycling Leaflet MASTER.indd 4 24/08/2015 09:40 BCC2015-6pp Recycling Leaflet MASTER.indd 5 24/08/2015 09:40 Travel and Parking

With so many people studying, working and • Parking on yellow lines can lead to a living in the University area, parking is a real parking ticket and fine. issue for residents. Consider whether you • Only use a Disabled parking space if you really need to bring your car. There are many have a disability and mobility issue. alternatives that will also boost your health, help deal with stress, and make a green impact.

Travelling from home • Why not share a lift with friends or housemates? • Take advantage of discounts through Translink and take the bus or train instead. Download the Translink app to plan journeys and check timetables. • Or check out private bus companies in your home town as some travel to the University area. Resident Parking Zones A resident parking zone is now in operation in Getting around Belfast the University area, and includes the following • Walking and cycling are great ways to streets: College Green, Rugby Road, College get round the city and great for your Park, part of University Avenue, part of health. For information on local routes Carmel Street, College Park Avenue, Rugby check out Sustrans online. Street, Rugby Parade. There are permit only • Register with Belfast Bikes and take and pay and display bays within the area. advantage of new docking stations next to the Student Guidance Centre. If you live in a resident parking zone area and • Look out for bike sales across the University don’t have access to off-street parking, you throughout the year. can apply for a permit. This entitles you to • Use the Metro Bus for getting around park in any parking bay within the zone free of Belfast. Dowload the mLink app which charge. If you want to apply for a permit, you is available free from Google Play and the should contact your landlord or letting agent. App Store. Only one resident’s permit can be issued per Parking household and must be registered to one If you do need to park in the University area, vehicle. A resident’s permit costs £30.00 be considerate and stick within the law. and lasts for one year. A permit does not guarantee availability of parking spaces. • Avoid blocking pavements as it may If you park illegally within the resident parking force people with pushchairs and prams, zone you can be issued with a Penalty Charge or wheelchair users onto the road, putting Notice. them at risk from oncoming traffic. • Make sure you leave enough space on the For further information, go to road for other vehicles to get through. https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/ • Make sure you don’t block driveways. resident-parking-zones

22 Community Living Handbook Community Living Handbook 23 Making a Positive Impact Community Volunteering

As Queen’s staff and students, we are all feel more included with my local community, part of one community and we all have and that my actions could make a difference Isabel responsibility to look after our area and even if just a small one that might encourage MEd Special Educational Needs and Inclusion be respectful to one another. Your time at others to get involved too. I found a real sense Student university will fly by before you know it, so why of fulfilment through Handy Helpers; in all areas “Involving myself in Handy Helpers was one of ruin it by having a bad relationship with those of physical, emotional, and intellectual. And I my best experiences, it has changed me into around you? Invest in the relationship with absolutely cannot wait to get involved again a better person and helped me create special your neighbours and you will be amazed how next academic year!” memories during my studies at Queen’s.” much it will enrich your University experience. You will likely discover that the family next Beccy Jia Yin door were students not that long ago and you BSc Microbiology Student LLB Law Student have much more in common with them than you might expect. “I can recommend Handy Helpers to local “Being a Handy Helpers volunteer is such a students but in particular international students meaningful thing to me, which gives me an It doesn’t take much to be a good neighbour. as well, since you get to know more about local opportunity to experience different cultures and If you are unsure where to start, one great passionate about, we will be able to find organisations. Furthermore, the variety of ways of thinking. It helps me make contribution way to engage with your local community what’s right for you. We also can help you activities offered was amazing and enriching to society, even if it is only a small action, as is through volunteering. Spend some time get rewarded for your volunteering and for my personal and professional development. well as helps me become aware of social and volunteering in your local area and you will we offer training on a variety of topics, I especially expanded my interpersonal skills environmental issues.” quickly get to know your neighbours, make including First Aid, Sustainability, Leadership such as working in a team with people you don’t new friends and create a great support and much more. Just drop us a line on know and adapting quickly to new situations, Zihui network around you. Volunteering and doing [email protected] or visit https://www. communicating efficiently, finding creative BSc Accounting Student good for others will give you a confidence qubsu.org/VolunteerSU/ to find out more.’ solutions, motivating others as well as cultural boost, a feeling of accomplishment, a sense of and ethical awareness.” belonging and will allow you to develop new skills that will help you kick start your career You can follow us on our social media: after Uni. Facebook: /QUBSUVolunteering Twitter: @VolunteerSU • Volunteer SU has a network of over 500 Instagram: @volunteer_su charities and community groups and we can match you to your perfect opportunity Margarita Jackson based on your interests and skills. From Volunteer & Community Support Officer community gardening to campaigning on humanitarian issues, whatever you’re Our Volunteers Say:

“Through Handy Helpers I have been introduced to so many current initiatives in Northern Ireland that I previously wasn’t aware of, without the daunting concerns around having regular committed spare time, with a student’s workload that peaks throughout the year. I feel like I’ve really gained a sense of usefulness and inclusion within my community through my contribution to the activities arranged by the group. Handy Helpers activities helped me

24 Community Living Handbook Community Living Handbook 25 Do you want to do good for your local community, develop your skills and make new friends, but you haven’t got the time to make a regular commitment?

Handy helpers is a unique initiative which enables you to take part in a wide range of one-off volunteering opportunities in the local community. You can pick and choose what activities you want to participate in based on your interests and availability.

From community gardening to decorating animal Making a Difference One shelters and event logistics, you will have the opportunity to gain experience in various settings Helping Hand at a Time while actively contributing to the local community.

There’s no long-term commitment, just get involved in the activities that suit you. As an added feel good factor, you’ll get access to relevant training and a loyalty card that gives you even more rewards for changing the world around you! Volunteer Recognition Sign up anytime throughout the academic year. & Degree Plus Find out more at www.qubsu.org/VolunteerSU/ Available Opportunities

26 Community Living Handbook Community Living Handbook 27 Get involved in the Community

Forward South Partnership The aim of FSP is to bring people and groups (FSP) works with the local together through shared and safe spaces residents groups, churches, that everybody can enjoy, and as part of community organisations their efforts to build capacity of groups and and universities to enhance residents, deliver events and programmes Belfast Friendship Club is a safe space Thursday evenings 7-9pm the living experience of the which supports good relations and for people from all over the world and for Common Grounds Café diverse population in the environmental interests. Belfast’s long term residents to: 12-24 University Avenue Wider University Area. Belfast BT7 1GY FSP encourages students in the area to get • meet in a diverse, supportive and relaxed FSP, together with local groups, run a number involved in the many activities that take place atmosphere, BFC is organised through the South Belfast of activities including the annual Spring throughout the year. Please check • get information, Roundtable, a partnership of over 105 groups Gathering festival in and around Rugby Road http://forwardsouth.org/ for upcoming • get involved in activities and events, which seeks to break down barriers, tackle on 17th March and the Horsey Hill pop-up activities • make friends and help each other. racism and promote diversity. community garden along the embankment on Collingwood Avenue. “It helps me make friends and be social and enjoy Belfast to its fullest.” Rishi, from India “It’s the big welcome you get as soon as you go through the door.” Meave, from NI

Whether you are very new to the city or have lived here for years, if you like the sound of what we offer why not come along and join in?

Some BFC members celebrating a birthday

South Belfast Foodbank opened in 2014 food parcels, to helping keep the website and has been working since then to help up-to-date. local people in crisis. Three days’ nutritionally balanced emergency food and support is • To find out more, phone077 4333 2489, provided to people referred to the foodbank. email [email protected] It is part of a nationwide network of or go to https://southbelfast.foodbank.org. foodbanks, supported by The Trussell Trust, uk working to combat poverty and hunger across the UK. If you find yourself to be in a position of food insecurity, then an emergency food Volunteers are the life blood of foodbanks and voucher can be obtained from Advice SU there are lots of ways to get involved, from at [email protected]. The voucher collecting food donations at supermarkets, can be exchanged at one of the foodbank sorting food in the warehouse, distributing distribution points for 3 days worth of food.

28 Community Living Handbook Community Living Handbook 29 Welcome to the Wildflower Alley Student Guidance and Support

Hi Students Wildflower Alley. In both these initiatives The services within the Student Guidance Centre include: Queen’s has been a great partner and it is an • Careers, Employability & Skills I’m Brid Ruddy and I’ve lived in South Belfast ongoing pleasure to work with them. • Disability Services Holyland, first as a student and then as a • International Student Support homeowner for 30 years now. As you can Our community projects continue to be • Learning Development Service imagine I’ve seen a lot of changes in that time! supported and go from strength to strength. • Student Wellbeing Services (Inc. counselling) If any student wants to come and chat to us or • Student Finance I gained my initial Degree from QUB and visit Wildflower Alley then please let Queen’s • Student Registry Services followed that up with a Masters in social know and we will welcome you! • Widening Participation research at Ulster University Coleraine, so I know both Universities well and think they are Also look out for pop up events at Holyland To find out more about our services and support available, please visitwww.qub.ac.uk/sgc call in top class! Community Green and Horsey Hill-volunteers person to the Information Desk on Level 1, or call us on 028 9097 2727. welcome! I was Chair of the first ever residents group For out of hours support, please consider contacting: formed in 1998 and since then have led a By Bríd Ruddy • Your own GP or local A&E hospital service. The GP out of hours number for the University number of local improvement initiatives Chair of College Park Avenue Residents’ area is 028 9079 6220 including the Residents Parking Scheme and Association • Counselling support delivered in partnership with Inspire Wellbeing (formerly Carecall) on 0808 800 0016 (24 hour, free from mobile and landline) • Lifeline – 24 hour helpline, 0808 808 8000 (free from mobile or landline) • The Samaritans – also available 24 hours. They can be contacted on 116 123 (national line) or 028 9066 4422 (Belfast).

30 Community Living Handbook Community Living Handbook 31 Student Wellbeing Service Disability

Queen’s Disability Services aim to create During the meeting you will be given the an inclusive environment which widens the opportunity to discuss your needs and participation and learning of students with determine the types of support you may disabilities and/or long term conditions. Our require during your time at University. services assess, guide and support students to equally and actively participate in all aspects Following the meeting, Disability Services can of University life. make recommendations for support tailored to meet your individual requirements. This The University is committed to creating an may include: environment where students are comfortable • Liaising with a number of departments in disclosing a disability or long term health across the University e.g. Exams Office, Need Support? We're here to help you be well condition. Disability Services currently Schools, Estates, Libraries, Information provides support to students with a wide Services etc. to ensure that students’ range of disabilities, including: specific support requirements are met • Specific learning difficulties (e.g. dyslexia, within lectures/tutorials/practical classes Whatever you're going through, there are a wide range of support dyspraxia) • Assisting students with applications for services available. Services provided by Student Disability & • Mental health difficulties (e.g. depression, Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA) Wellbeing are available to all registered students at the University. anxiety, OCD) • Arranging support providers, including • ASD Note takers, exam scribes etc. DROP-IN PSYCHOLOGICAL THERAPIES • Physical and mobility difficulties & OUT OF HOURS • Visual or Hearing impairments For further information, please contact Disability & Wellbeing • Medical conditions (e.g. diabetes, asthma, Disability Services: Psychological therapies are offered in Monday-Friday, 11:00am-3:00pm partnership with Inspire Wellbeing. ME, epilepsy) We offer guidance on personal and Email: [email protected] I N S P I R E 24/7 helpline | Freephone academic related issues that are We want to ensure that Queen’s is accessible 0808 800 0016 (Wellbeing Support) impacting on your wellbeing. to you. https://www.qub.ac.uk/directorates/sgc/ Students who require immediate Wellbeing disability/ Call us: support can also contact: Support is tailored to your individual needs 07387 546 123 DROP-IN PSYCHOLOGICAL L I F E L I N E 24/7 helpline | Freephone and is designed to help you develop effective THERAPIES & 0808 808 8000 (Crisis Support) Online: OUT OF HOURS strategies that support your academic go.qub.ac.uk/drop-in Your GP or Emergency Department. learning. In an emergency, dial 999. Visit us: Level 1, The GP out of hours number for To progress your registration, please complete Student Guidance Centre the University area is: 028 9079 6220. the following steps: Step 1: Complete our SAFE & HEALTHY Pre- Registration questionnaire online - This EVENTS can be found at: https://services.qub.ac.uk/ RELATIONSHIPS We run a variety of events to help students DisabilityServices/Questionnaire We have a specialist Safe & Healthy maintain and improve their wellbeing. Relationships Adviser to support All students can take part in our WOW Step 2: Upload Medical Evidence at the end students affected by sexual misconduct, (Wellbeing on Weekdays) events programme. of the questionnaire bullying, harassment, or hate crime. Check out the schedule at SAFE & HEALTHY Students can report issues EVENTS go.qub.ac.uk/WOWEvents On receipt of your questionnaire and medical RELATIONSHIPS ADVICE anonymously or with their details at: reportandsupport.qub.ac.uk evidence, you will be invited to attend an assessment meeting with a Disability Officer.

qub.ac.uk/bewell #QUBeWell Community Living Handbook 33 Getting Advice Students wishing to arrange an appointment Students’ Union Support Lots of information is readily available on the or receive email advice should either email Advice SU section of the Students’ Union Advice SU at [email protected] website www.qubsu.org. Here you will also or complete the online form found on the find contact details and directions to the Advice SU section of the Students’ Union Students’ Union. website. It is not unusual for university life to throw up Disciplinary Advice all sorts of different situations, difficulties and Any student against whom an allegation In normal times Advice SU operates three challenges which a student may need help with. of misconduct has been made may access drop-in sessions per week independent support and guidance from • Monday 2.00pm - 4.30pm Advice SU provides Queen’s students with a Advice SU. Advisers can provide information • Wednesday 2.00pm - 4.30pm free, impartial and accurate advice service in a on the disciplinary process and may, when • Friday 9.30am – 12.00pm) confidential setting and in a non-judgemental requested, accompany a student at any manner. point in the proceedings, such as to an initial As you know we’re not in ‘normal’ times at the investigatory meeting or a Committee of moment and no one is sure when we will be As part of Queen’s Students’ Union, Advice Discipline. In cases where a disciplinary fine again. SU operates within the ethos of the student is imposed and financial difficulties exist, union movement and therefore provides Advice SU can assist the student negotiate an Drop-in sessions will not be available until advice completely independently of the affordable payment plan with the University public health advice permits it and then only University. in order that the fine may be paid within a when all the appropriate health and safety realistic time frame. measures can be observed. All Advisers are trained and experienced in providing specialist advice, information, Accommodation The quickest and easiest way to contact support and representation on a wide range Comprehensive advice and information is Advice SU is via email of academic and non-academic issues. available with regard to University and private [email protected] sector housing, including tenants’ rights and Money Issues responsibilities, landlord obligations, tenancy Please check the Student Union website Advice and information is available on student agreements, tenancy deposit schemes and for up to date information regarding other grants, loans, fees, University Support and disputes. ways of contacting Advice SU or follow us on Hardship Funds, the financial aspects of Twitter @Qubsu_Advice repeating years and course changes, Social Welfare advice and support Security benefits, budgeting and other Advice SU staff are experienced in supporting general financial issues. Advice SU is also students with a wide range of personal issues authorised and regulated by the Financial which may be sensitive and confidential in Conduct Authority to provide specialist debt nature. Advisers recognise that these issues Bethany Moore, your Student Officer Welfare, counselling. can be difficult to cope with and can assist represents Queen’s students’ interests students to access the most appropriate relating to welfare - including student mental Academic Advice support available which may be University health, well-being, housing and safety. Students may be helped and supported services, external agencies or a combination through the appeals process, academic of both. Advice and support is also available to Bethany can also help signpost you to the offences, supervision issues, exceptional any student who feels they may be subjected welfare support available to you within the circumstances, complaints, and fitness to to bullying or harassment. Union and University. practice hearings. Advisers can • provide advice about different University Advisers are also able to help with queries You can get in touch with Bethany by emailing procedures and regulations relating to many other topics and have a [email protected] • support students to interpret the wealth of knowledge and contacts enabling University’s regulations and to then make them to signpost students to other relevant their own informed choices services when applicable. • assist a student prepare for meetings or hearings and when required accompany the student in a supporting role

34 Community Living Handbook Community Living Handbook 35 Next Steps University Colleges Student Careers & Employability [email protected] There to help you with decisions Support about your career progression routes. at Belfast Met

Safeguarding

Safeguarding is about helping students to keep themselves safe Student Voice and to prevent abuse from taking place. It is also about There to give you a say in responding to disclosures of how your college is run. alleged and suspected abuse. Eugene McKenna For help with a safeguarding issue, Stranmillis St Mary’s 028 9026 5053 or contact us on: Student Support and Wellbeing seeks to The Student Guidance and Support Service at [email protected] 028 9026 5108 or provide a wide range of help and support St Mary’s University College is situated at the [email protected] structures for all students studying at Beechmount Avenue entrance and is located Stranmillis. Such services include disability primarily in rooms 044 and 045. Guidance Students’ Union Student support and advice, student health, and information is available regarding the Counselling counselling, chaplaincy, advocacy and following: accommodation, counselling, There to support you with extracurricular activities and advice. academic support. academic matters, careers, health, living in the A service we provide via Inspire Eugene McKenna Students to allow you to talk in 028 9026 5053 or confidence about any issues community and financial matters. Students that are causing you difficulties. Student Support and Wellbeing provides a with additional needs should also contact this [email protected] Inspire's Freephone telephone support line is open 24 hours a welcoming environment where all students service at the earliest opportunity to ensure day, 365 days a year and can may drop in, or alternatively, make an that appropriate support can be arranged. provide access to a team of specially trained counsellors. appointment. 0808 800 0032 The Student Guidance and Support Service [email protected] The Student Support and Wellbeing Centre staff work closely with the officers in the is open Monday to Friday 9.00am to 5.00pm Students’ Union to ensure that students’ (Friday 4.25pm). The Centre is closed for needs are met as fully as possible. lunch from 1.00pm to 2.00pm. Inclusive Learning Remember that there is always someone There to support you if you have a disability, a learning difficulty or a Student Support & Wellbeing Centre here to help you. If rooms 044 and 045 long-term medical condition. Stranmillis House are unstaffed, please consult the notice- 028 9026 5097 or Centre for Stranmillis University College board outside office 044 where you will find 028 9026 5064 Student Wellbeing Stranmillis Road photographs and contact details for staff [email protected] There to help you to overcome barriers to Student Funding your education with tailored support on: There to support you with advice Belfast who are also available to offer support and • Life skills and guidance on a range of BT9 5DY assistance. • Health and wellbeing student finance issues. • Personal Issues 028 9026 5183 • Bahavioural Issues or • Risk taking issues [email protected] Dr Ken Gibson Deirdre Cree • Economic hardship Director of Student and Learning Services Coordinator Student Guidance and Support 028 9026 5108 or Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] [email protected] Tel: 028 9038 4401 Library Ruairí Wilson Services Mrs Patricia Smyth Student Support Officer There to provide you with a wide range of Student Support and Wellbeing Officer Email: [email protected] Which Course? services and facilities Careers & Employability in support of your Email: [email protected] or Tel: 028 9026 8353 studies. [email protected] There to support you when making Castlereagh Campus Library Tel: 028 9038 4510 decisions about: 028 9053 3125 • your further and higher education Millfield Campus Library • your skills and career development 028 9026 5334 • on-course options like work experience Titanic Quarter Campus Library and part-time employment 36 Community Living Handbook 028 9026 5066 or 028 9026 5072 [email protected] [email protected] The Student Charter

You can expect the University to: welfare, disability support, English In return you are expected to: • use the facilities and resources of the language training, finance, tuition and University, whether in Schools or centrally, accommodation fees, scholarships and with respect and consideration for others; • provide timely and accurate information bursaries and complaints and appeals • complete all enrolment and registration about arrangements for your enrolment, procedures; at the outset of each academic year, pay • behave in a responsible manner on and registration and induction; fees and charges when they are due, and off campus, on social media and other • provide positions for student participate fully in the induction process; forms of communication, and ensure • provide an induction process to help representatives on relevant University that your actions do not have an adverse familiarise you with the campus, introduce committees, boards, working groups, • fully engage as an active learner in our impact on the University’s reputation, its you to other students, and provide an forums and reviews; shared educational experience; environment, your neighbours, the local introduction to your studies, available community or those who work or study at resources and key people; • provide opportunities for you and your • familiarise yourself with the information the University; student representatives to give feedback provided about your programme and seek • promote an active learning community to the School and University on your clarification of anything which you do not • comply with the terms of all Statutes, in which you will have the opportunity to experience as a student, including understand from your School office or Ordinances, Study Regulations, develop as an independent learner; participation in appropriate quality central University department; Conduct Regulations, policies, rules and assurance and enhancement procedures; requirements of the University including • provide appropriate learning opportunities, • commit to the study schedule provided by where applicable, immigration legislation resources and support to assist you in your • provide information on action taken in the University; and any professional standards and studies; response to feedback received from requirements which are applicable to your • pursue your academic studies in a diligent, students; programme; • provide you with a programme of study honest and professional manner; including embedded skills development to • provide you with opportunities to access • read information provided to you about • make use of feedback on your academic enhance your employability; extra-curricular cultural, recreational, the University, its services and your School work and ask for clarification if you feel it social and sporting activities; and retain it for future reference; • provide you with a study schedule setting is needed; out the forms of study required; • provide independent advice and support • give your views honestly and constructively • attend all scheduled sessions related to through the Advice SU; on your educational and university • provide you with appropriate and timely your studies and be an active participant; experience. feedback on your progress that promotes • treat students equally and respectfully learning and facilitates improvement; • attend all examinations, undertake all regardless of gender, religion, community More detailed information about the background, nationality, race/ethnic origin, required assessments and submit all work • provide you with opportunities to on time; responsibilities and entitlements of students disability, marital status, sexual orientation, and the support and services provided by the participate in work-related activity and to or age; study abroad; • inform your tutor, supervisor, Adviser of University are set out in the online version at: https://www.qub.ac.uk/directorates/ • be professional in its dealings with you; Studies or School office if you are unable • provide a range of targeted bursaries and to attend a teaching session, examination AcademicStudentAffairs/AcademicAffairs/ scholarships including awards made on the • safeguard all the personal information or are unable to submit coursework on GeneralRegulations/ basis of financial background, entry grades, you provide, in compliance with the time; or to support study related travel; requirements of the Data Protection Act and the Freedom of Information Act. • treat fellow students, University staff • provide guidance, assistance and advice and visitors equally and respectfully through Schools, the Student Guidance regardless of gender, religion, community Centre, and the International and background, nationality, race/ethnic Postgraduate Student Centre on visas origin, disability, marital status, care of and immigration, academic matters, dependants, sexual orientation, or age;

38 Community Living Handbook Community Living Handbook 39 6. Disclosure of Criminal Convictions /Allegations 6.9 Students whose programmes are covered by University Conduct Regulations - of Criminal Activity the Fitness to Practise Procedure must disclose to the University as soon as possible if they 6.1 The University takes the health, safety and become subject to a police investigation and/ Key Points wellbeing of all its staff and students seriously or pre-charge or court bail conditions or acquire and in order to assess any potential risk, it a criminal record, after admission and before deems disclosure of certain criminal information graduation, relating to any criminal offence. necessary. 6.10 Failure to disclose the required information The Student Conduct Regulations are there to Where a statement of complaint has been made 6.2 Upon enrolment and registration, students to the Director of Academic and Student Affairs guide you through your time at University. about a student or a member of staff, that person must disclose any unspent conviction* for a as stated in 6.2-6.4 above, normally within will normally be provided with a copy of the relevant offence (see 6.5) to the Director of two working days of the student becoming As a student, you are subject to the Conduct statement. Any person who makes a statement of Academic and Student Affairs. Failure to do aware of the investigation, imposition of bail Regulations continuously for the duration of your complaint will be advised of this accordingly. so within two working days may be deemed to conditions, charge or summons, or imposition studies, from the date of first registration until constitute a disciplinary offence (see Annex 1, of a court order (see 6.6 above), may constitute midnight on the day of graduation. Communication Table 2). a disciplinary offence (see Annex 1, Table 2). The The Conduct Regulations apply equally on and off- 2.4 The University will normally communicate *as set out in The Rehabilitation of Offenders NI student will not be requested or required to campus and in University accommodation. by email with anyone involved in the University Order 1978. disclose any details of the alleged offence other process. In the case of registered students or than the information set out at 6.4 above. Following are some key points. For further University staff, this will normally be to their 6.3 Where, after admission to the University but 6.11 Students must keep the Director of Academic information and guidance on the Conduct University email address. Where correspondence before ceasing to be a student, if a student: and Student Affairs updated on the progress of Regulations, go to: is sent to a registered student by post it will be http://go.qub.ac.uk/Student-Guide-misconduct i. is notified that they are under police any police investigation or criminal proceedings. sent to the term-time address registered with the investigation for a relevant offence University. 6.12 For the avoidance of doubt, a student is not ii. is subject to bail conditions which have any required to submit a subject access request under Support and Right to Be Accompanied impact on their ability to attend campus or the data protection legislation in order to comply 2.10.1 Any student against whom an allegation of carry out study (whether pre-charge / police with 6.2-6.6. misconduct has been made may access support bail or court bail) 6.13 Regulations 6.2-6.6 apply to students from the University’s Student Wellbeing Service iii. is charged with a relevant offence during a period of temporary withdrawal (see (www.qub.ac.uk/directorates/sgc/wellbeing/). Regulations for Students 1.20) and to any student Advice and support is also available from the iv. is summonsed in relation to a relevant offence under suspension (including an emergency Students’ Union (www.qubsu.org/AdviceSU/). the student must inform the Director of Academic and Student Affairs immediately. or precautionary suspension for a related or VI. Conduct Regulations 2.10.2 Any student has the right to be unrelated matter). accompanied at any stage in the proceedings by 6.4 The student must disclose to the Director of 6.14 Following disclosure by a student pursuant to Confidentiality a registered student of the University (which shall Academic and Student Affairs: regulation 6.2-6.6, the Director of Academic and include a Students’ Union Sabbatical Officer), or 2.3 The University will take all reasonable steps i. the nature of the offence for which they are Student Affairs may consult with senior colleagues a member of staff of the University, or University to limit the disclosure of information as is under investigation and/or other appropriate persons and will, where Chaplaincy. At all stages of the process, students consistent with investigating the issue(s) raised appropriate, impose an emergency precautionary will be notified of their right to be accompanied. and the provisions of the Human Rights Act 1998, ii. any bail conditions imposed by police or court suspension or exclusion pursuant to 7.3. the General Data Protection Regulation 2016, A student may be permitted, exceptionally, and iii. the charge (if any) against the student the Data Protection Act 2018, the Freedom of with the approval of the Pro-Vice-Chancellor Investigation Information Act 2000, and any other relevant (Education and Students), to be accompanied by iv. the name and contact details of the 10.1 The Investigating Officer for off-campus legislation. All staff and students who become an additional internal member of the University or Investigating Officer, if known offences shall normally be the Community involved in the Disciplinary Procedures are a member of an external organisation to ensure Engagement Manager (or nominee). In all other required to respect the integrity of the process that the pastoral needs of the student are fully 6.5 For the purpose of 6.2-6.4, a relevant offence cases the Disciplinary Officer (see 2.1.6) shall and the confidentiality of information arising met. In such cases, the input of Disability Services is a criminal offence involving any act of violence, appoint an Investigating Officer. The Investigating from it both during and after the conclusion of and Student Wellbeing will be sought in advance. offences concerning the intention to harm or Officer shall normally, within five working days of the process, unless there is an overriding reason resulting in actual harm, the unlawful supply Standard of proof the University’s receipt of the complaint, initiate to disclose information. Information will only be of controlled drugs or substances where the an investigation into the matter. This shall include released to those who need it for the purpose 2.16 At all times, the principles of natural justice conviction concerns commercial drug dealing the examination of written evidence from the of investigating or responding to a matter; shall be observed and the standard of proof shall or trafficking, offences involving firearms, arson person(s) bringing the complaint against the no third party will be told any more about the be on the balance of probabilities. or those listed in the Sexual Offences (Northern student, evidence from the student concerned, investigation than strictly necessary in order Ireland) Order 2008 or The Terrorism Act 2006 and other relevant evidence. to obtain the information required from them. or equivalent legislation for offences committed/ conviction acquired outside the UK.

40 Community Living Handbook Community Living Handbook 41 10.5 The Investigating Officer shall make a written i. Dismiss the case. Standard Penalty/Action report of the findings to the Disciplinary Officer detailing all the evidence obtained and making a ii. Find that a disciplinary offence has been Offence First Offence Second Offence committed but that advice and warning should recommendation.. 1 Smoking or vaping in a non-designated area (outside). Written Warning and Fine - £50 Written Warning and Fine - £100 be given to the student. A record of the advice 11.1 If the Disciplinary Officer considers the and warning will be retained on their student 2 Drinking alcohol in a prohibited area. Written Warning and Fine - £50 Written Warning and Fine - £150 circumstances warrant it (e.g. if the facts of a case record. 3 Smoking or vaping in a prohibited area (inside). Written warning and Fine - £150 Referral to Committee of Discipline are not contested), they may deal with the case iii. Conditional discharge – that no further Burning incense or candles on University premises without summarily. The Disciplinary Officer may make a 4 Written warning and Fine - £150 Referral to Committee of Discipline decision and impose a penalty within the limits action be taken provided the student fulfils appropriate authorisation the conditions laid down by the Disciplinary specified in 15.1, without interviewing the student. Failure, without reasonable cause, to produce accurate Written Warning and Fine - £250 and/ Officer. 5 identification upon demand to authorised persons, who Written Warning and Fine - £150 11.2 If the Disciplinary Officer deems it or exclusion iv. A written warning which will stay on the should identify themselves. appropriate, they may interview the responding Written Warning and Fine - £250 and/ student transcript until graduation. Minor anti-social disturbance including off-campus noise student (see 12). 6 Written Warning and Fine - £150 or exclusion or referral to Committee disturbance. v. A fine, up to a maximum of £250 per offence. of Discipline* 11.3 If the Disciplinary Officer decides there is no Written Warning and Fine - £250 and/ case to answer, then the Disciplinary Officer shall vi. Payment for any loss or damage that resulted Causing minor harm or threatening to cause minor harm to 7 Written Warning and Fine - £150 or exclusion or referral to Committee dismiss the case. another person. directly or indirectly from the student’s of Discipline* misconduct. 11.5 The Disciplinary Officer shall notify the Written Warning and Fine - £250 and/ student of their decision in accordance with 2.4 vii. Referral of the case to the Committee of 8 Minor vandalism or malicious damage to property. Written Warning and Fine - £150 or exclusion or referral to Committee and 2.5 above. Discipline. of Discipline* Disruption of, or interference with, the activities of the Disciplinary Officer Hearing 9 Written Warning and Fine - £150 Referral to Committee of Discipline* viii. Referral of the case to Academic Affairs for University, whether on University premises or elsewhere. the University Fitness to Practise procedure to 12.1.5 The student shall be allowed five working be invoked. Obstruction of, or improper interference with, the functions, days in which to prepare their case. All information duties or activities of any student, member of staff or other 10 Written Warning and Fine - £150 Referral to Committee of Discipline* on which the student intends to rely should ix. Exclusion involving a selective restriction on, employee of the University or any authorised visitor to the normally be made available to the Disciplinary or access to the University, or prohibition University. Officer at least two working days before the date on exercising the functions and/or duties Behaviour which interferes with the legitimate freedom of set for the interview. of any office or committee membership in 11 speech, ideas, actions or enquiry of any other student or Written Warning and Fine - £150 Referral to Committee of Discipline* the University or Students’ Union, the exact member of staff. 12.1.7 The decision of the Disciplinary Officer shall be communicated to the student in writing details to be specified in writing. (This does not 12 Indecent misconduct (minor) Written Warning and Fine - £150 Referral to Committee of Discipline* include exclusion from the student’s course). in accordance with 2.4 and 2.5 above. The Head Failure to comply with a penalty previously imposed under 13 Written Warning and Fine - £150 Referral to Committee of Discipline* of the relevant School or Director of the relevant x. Exclusion for a specified period from these regulations for a minor offence. Institute shall be informed. The student’s right to University accommodation. Contempt of the University’s Discipline procedures by failing appeal a decision to the Committee of Discipline 14 Written Warning and Fine - £150 Referral to Committee of Discipline* shall also be stated in the communication. to co-operate with the University’s discipline authorities. Table 1: Standard penalties for offences normally Breach of University Regulations or Policy and Procedures 12.1.8 There shall be no appeal against a referral to considered at Disciplinary Officer Stage 15 e.g. the Student Social Media Policy, Student Visa Written Warning and Fine - £150 Referral to Committee of Discipline* a Committee of Discipline, where a finding of guilt requirements. has not been made. Misuse of learning materials, including online and recorded 16 Written warning and Fine - £250 Referral to Committee of Discipline* Outcomes available to a Disciplinary Officer materials, provided to students by the University 15.1 Having considered the allegation(s) of 17 Breach of Covid-19 guidance and/or regulations Written Warning and Fine - £250 Referral to Committee of Discipline* misconduct, the Disciplinary Officer may dispose of the case using one or any combination of the *The decision to refer a case to the Committee In cases where a student admits an offence or presents following; of Discipline should be taken in consultation with mitigating circumstances (which should be recorded), a Academic Affairs. A hearing is not required for a case lesser penalty may be considered. A written warning will to be referred. stay on the student transcript until graduation.

In addition to the above penalties, students will be A second offence of an identical or similar nature will required to pay for any loss or damage that resulted normally be referred to a Committee of Discipline. A directly or indirectly from the student’s misconduct. second offence of a different nature may be dealt The standard penalties listed above are not maximum with by a Disciplinary Officer. More than three minor penalties. Depending on the circumstances and offences will result in a student being referred directly severity of an offence a heavier penalty may be applied. to a Committee of Discipline.

42 Community Living Handbook Community Living Handbook 43 Table 2: Standard penalties for offences considered by the Committee of Discipline The Committee of Discipline must consider whether the Paying a Fine or AEI Workshop Fee nature and severity of the offence(s) warrant expulsion. Standard Penalty Offence First Offence Second Offence

1 Minor offence committed by a student with a disciplinary record. Written Warning and Fine - £350 Suspension

2 Taking property without the consent of the owner Written Warning and Fine - £500 Expulsion Please note that failure to pay your fine How to pay a fine by Phone could result in you committing an additional Phone 028 0907 2858 and state that you 3 Major vandalism or malicious damage to property. Written Warning and Fine - £500 Expulsion offence of ‘Failure to comply with a penalty need to pay a fine. Expulsion or Exclusion from previously imposed under these regulations 4 Misuse of fire or other safety equipment. Written Warning and Fine - £500 University Accommodation for a minor When you pay, you will be asked for and must Failure to co-operate with the University’s discipline authorities on offence.’ provide a project code, account code and sub 5 Suspension Expulsion more than one occasion. analysis code as well as your own reference Behaviour which brings, or may bring, the name of the University How to Pay a Fine Online number. 6 Suspension Expulsion into disrepute. 1. Click on the link below to access the online Possession of an illegal substance or illegal possession of a portal https://ecommerce.apps.qub.ac.uk/ Project CodEmail: C5210MRA Suspension/exclusion from 7 controlled drug, or possession of any prescription drug which has Expulsion University accommodation oscommunity/catalog/ Account CodEmail: 5535 not been prescribed directly to the student. 2. Click on Create an Account Sub-analysis: FINES Production of, offer of, sale of or giving to any person, any illegal 8 Expulsion n/a 3. Fill in your personal details then Click Reference Number: Found in your outcome substance, controlled drug or prescription drug. Continue letter 9 Abusive, threatening, intimidating, bullying or harassing behaviour Expulsion n/a 4. Once your account has been created click Making false, frivolous, malicious, mischievous or vexatious on Community Engagement Fines on the left You are required to provide proof of payment 10 Suspension Expulsion allegations against another member of the University. hand menu. to Community Engagement by supplying a 11 Serious indecent misconduct Suspension Expulsion 5. Click on Buy Now receipt or email, confirming payment to the 6. In the Amount to Pay put the total amount Finance Office. 12 Sexual misconduct, including attempted sexual misconduct Expulsion n/a due i.e. 150.00 and click Update (you Failure to disclose the required information to the Director of cannot put in 150 you need to put .00 For information on how to manage your 13 Academic and Student Affairs as required by regulation 6 of these Expulsion n/a after the amount). If you have agreed money please visit: Regulations. a payment plan with the Community https://qubsu.org/AdviceSU/Money/ Fabrication or falsification of evidence or information provided to 14 Expulsion n/a Engagement Manager, you can input the the University amount due for your agreed payment. 15 Physical misconduct Expulsion n/a Click Checkout 16 Threats of physical misconduct Suspension Expulsion 7. You will have your details displayed and 17 Public disorder Expulsion n/a you must provide the reference number given to you on your outcome letter in the Repeated or serious/gross misuse of learning materials, including 18 Suspension Expulsion online and recorded materials, provided to students by the University additional information. Click continue Failure to engage with an investigation into allegations of serious 8. Check your details are correct and the 19 Suspension Expulsion misconduct amount is correct then click Confirm Order Major breach or repeated breaches of Covid-19 guidance and/or 9. You will be brought to WorldPay to put in 20 Expulsion n/a regulations your payment details. Click Make Payment.

In addition to the above penalties, students will be A written warning will stay on the student transcript Please make sure to keep a receipt for future required to pay for any loss or damage that resulted until graduation. reference. directly or indirectly from the student’s misconduct. Suspension will normally be for an academic year, The standard penalties listed above are not maximum although this may vary according to the nature and penalties. Depending on the circumstances and severity of offences. severity of an offence a heavier penalty may be applied, including suspension, exclusion or expulsion. Students who are suspended may be permitted to take examinations but will not be permitted to In cases where a student admits an offence, or graduate or re-enrol. presents mitigating circumstances (which should be recorded), a lesser penalty may be considered. Expulsion will be recorded permanently on the student transcript.

44 Community Living Handbook Community Living Handbook 45 What to do if You Receive Notice of a Complaint

If you are contacted by the What happens at the meeting? • Sign off the message with your full name Failure to complete BOTH elements University regarding a complaint: and student number. successfully will mean that you have failed the • You will meet with a Community programme. • Don’t ignore it! It won’t go away, and you Engagement Officer who normally will be • The email statement is an important might end up creating worries or difficulties accompanied by a note-taker. opportunity for you to set out your view of Failing the programme will lead to any penalty, for yourself that are completely avoidable. the case for a Disciplinary Officer. or part of a penalty, that was set aside subject • They will confirm your name and contact to successful completion of the Alcohol • The University has to investigate complaints details. • Community Engagement will forward a Education Initiative being imposed. about students that it receives, but it does report, including your email statement to a not assume that you are guilty – it needs to • You will discuss the report with them and be Disciplinary Officer. The Disciplinary Officer Please note that the fee for the Alcohol hear your side of the story. asked to give your side of the story. will decide whether to dismiss the case, Education Initiative must be paid in advance judge the case summarily, or convene a of the Workshop, in accordance with the • If you have any questions, phone the office • They will provide you with advice that may hearing. terms set out in the invitation to join the - contact details will be in the letter. help you avoid future complaints. programme. • Serious cases are referred to the • If the time of the appointment doesn’t suit What happens after the meeting? Committee of Discipline. Remember Failure to respond to the invitation, or to you, contact the office to re-schedule. – students can make complaints about pay the fee by the deadlines set out in the • Email a statement to community@qub. antisocial behaviour too! invitation, will mean that you will have lost the • If you want independent advice or support ac.uk– this will be part of the evidence for opportunity to take part in the programme. prior to the meeting, contact the Students’ the case, so it is in your best interests to: Alcohol Education Initiative As a consequence, any penalty, or part Union’s independent advice service, of a penalty, that was set aside subject Advice SU on [email protected]. • Use your address or the case number as the Alcohol has been consumed by the vast to successful completion of the Alcohol An adviser can also accompany you to any subject of the email. majority of students who are investigated Education Initiative will be imposed. meetings during the process if you feel it under Queen’s Conduct Regulations. would be helpful. Alternatively, you may be • Address the email appropriately (Dear Mr/ Email: [email protected] accompanied by another student (including Ms etc.) In recognition of this, we run a programme to Tel: 028 9097 3758 a Students’ Union elected Officer), a increase awareness of alcohol and its effects http://go.qub.ac.uk/Community member of staff or a University Chaplain.. • Don’t write it the way you text your friends! for students who have committed a minor Write it as a formal letter, having thought offence where alcohol was involved. • Most importantly, don’t ignore it! It won’t about what you want to say. Remember to go away and you could ultimately face a check your spelling and punctuation! Successful completion of the initiative is new charge for failing to co-operate. offset against all or part of a disciplinary • Be careful with humour or sarcasm – penalty. You will have to pay an administration disciplinary allegations are not laughing fee for the course. matters. The Alcohol Education Initiative is a programme that consists of two elements: the Alcohol Education Workshop and a follow-up questionnaire to be completed online.

46 Community Living Handbook Community Living Handbook 47 Key Contacts Belfast City Council

Academic & Student Affairs https://www.belfastcity.gov.uk/community/ Student Guidance Centre community-safety-and-advice/student-advice Email: [email protected] Tel: 028 9097 2727 PSNI Web: www.qub.ac.uk/directorates/sgc [email protected] Students’ Union (to report antisocial behaviour, welfare issues and minor queries) Web: www.qubsu.org PSNI Advice for students: Students’ Union President https://www.psni.police.uk/advice_ Email: [email protected] information/advice-for-students/ Student Officer Campaigns & https://www.psni.police.uk/crime/hate-crime Communications Email: [email protected] Welfare

Student Officer Education Advice SU: Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Student Officer Equality & Diversity Queen’s Student Wellbeing: Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Student Officer Postgraduate Tel: 028 9097 2893 Email: [email protected] QUB Counselling: Student Officer Welfare Inspire - 0808 800 0016 Email: [email protected] Lifeline (24/7 free counselling): www.lifelinehelpline.info – 0808 808 8000 See also Welfare section opposite. The Samaritans: Queen’s Security Tel: 116 123 (national line) Tel: 028 9066 4422 (Belfast) Security staff are on duty at all times, and may be contacted on internal extension 5099 or Alcohol and Drugs info and support external 028 9097 5099. In an emergency www.ascert.biz where there is an imminent and serious www.addictionni.com danger to people or property, dial 2222 from a University phone to contact the University Employability Control Room operator, or 999 to contact Police, Fire and Ambulance services. www.qub.ac.uk/directorates/degreeplus www.qub.ac.uk/careers www.qubsu.org/EnterpriseSU www.qubsu.org/VolunteerSU www.qubsu.org/ClubsSocieties www.qubsu.org/studentvoice

Public Engagement [email protected] | 028 9097 3758 http://go.qub.ac.uk/community

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© Queen’s University Belfast Public Engagement / Published September 2021