Cyberbullying can have devastating and far-reaching consequences on the victim. However, what is not so well-known are the consequences for the cyberbully.

At the University of Winchester there is a specific policy ‘Student Use and Misuse of Social Media’, which covers all forms of social media and highlights the potential impact of any messages or content posted online. Whilst at university, all communications should adhere to the standards of behaviour set out in the policy guidelines. All students represent the University and therefore any transgressions made via social media also impact on the reputation of the University and will be treated as a serious matter.

If a student is found to be conducting any form of cyberbullying, via social media or any other context, such as harassment, discrimination, impersonation, falsification, defamation or hostility to any student, staff member or third party, this may result in “action up to and including expulsion from the University”, in accordance with our Social Media policy and Disciplinary policy. For more serious complaints the matter may need to involve the police. Please note that a complaint can be made directly to the police without contacting the University first.

The repercussions from these disciplinary actions may follow the perpetrator around for the rest of their lives and may even impact on their ability to secure a job in the future.

If a student has any issues concerning bullying or harassment, whether or online or face-to-face, the guidelines advise that they should report the matter. If a student has any issues concerning bullying or harassment, whether or online or face-to-face, the guidelines advise that they should report the matter to an appropriate member of staff e.g. personal tutor, Head of Department, Student Services or Student Union, or through report@winchester.ac.uk. The University takes any concerns or complaints very seriously and offers the full support of the University.