Concerns for a student
Information for staff on contacting a student's trusted contact
Students trusted contacts are recorded on the student record system EUCLID, and students are prompted to update this information at matriculation each year. the student can also update details throughout the year
Wherever possible, University staff should consult with the student prior to communicating with their Trusted Contact. The student has provided this information on the understanding that it is used without prior consent only when there is evidence of an urgent risk to their immediate health or safety.
Deciding to contact a student’s trusted contact without consent may be relatively straightforward (for example in the case of a medical emergency) or it may be a relatively complex decision, for example where students or staff have raised concerns about a student’s wellbeing and the whereabouts of that student are not known.
Guidance has been developed to help staff who identify concerns and risks relating to a student’s wellbeing, and they are considering whether to communicate with the student’s nominated “Trusted Contact” to make them aware of the situation and secure their help with locating and/ or supporting the student.
This guidance may be used at any point in the student’s time at the University, including when they are at the point of interrupting their studies or withdrawing. It should be read within the context of the University’s GDPR guidance.
If a situation where this guidance needs to be used takes place out of normal University office hours (Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm), then the University Security Section should be contacted so that a senior manager can be alerted.