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This guidance, building on a UÏã¸ÛÁùºÏ²Ê¿ª½±½á¹û and Pinsent Mason publication from 2016, sets out principles and practical case studies to help navigate these judgements.

This guidance was written by Nicola Bradfield, Associate Pro Vice-Chancellor at Coventry University, with support from a Universities Ïã¸ÛÁùºÏ²Ê¿ª½±½á¹û working group made up of representatives from Pinsent Masons and colleagues from several universities.

All cases will be different (including in the type of misconduct involved, the courses being studied, the reporting routes taken and the action taken by the police) and so will need to be assessed and responded to individually.

However, eight areas of practical advice have been produced on how the guidance may be applied in certain situations.

1. Using careful communication to ensure students are clear about the investigation or disciplinary process.

2. Deciding which procedure to use, for example, whether that is a disciplinary procedure or one of fitness to practice.

3. °Õ²¹°ì¾±²Ô²µÌýprecautionary action while investigating, and how assessments of risk might be made.

4. Responding to issues where students are on a placement, and the role placement providers may have.

5. Gathering and sharing information in a lawful way.

6. Carrying out investigations and compliance with procedural fairness.

7. Assessing when legal representation at hearings may be permitted.

8. Adjusting the hearing process for students and witnesses to ensure the hearing is fair.