I am a student
Dublin City University (DCU) is committed to providing an equal, inclusive, and diverse environment where every student feels safe, respected, and valued. The University maintains a zero-tolerance stance on all forms of sexual misconduct, bullying, and harassment. There is no right or wrong way to feel after an experience of misconduct; any next steps are entirely your choice, and those choices will be respected.
DCU Internal Support for Students
Dublin City University provides a multi-layered network of internal supports for students, ranging from professional mental health services to anonymous reporting tools and academic guidance.
The SS&D team is centrally responsible for promoting a student culture free from misconduct and ensuring that behavioural standards remain acceptable.Their roles include:
- Welfare protection: They endeavour to protect the wellbeing and welfare of students while ensuring reporting parties are not victimised for making complaints in good faith.
- Resolution management: SS&D staff manage and facilitate both informal and formal resolutions, treating complaints seriously and addressing them promptly and impartially.
- Policy awareness: They are tasked with ensuring students are aware of the Sexual Misconduct and Dignity and Respect policies and their associated procedures.
This service provides professional, confidential counselling to students dealing with the stress and distress of bullying, harassment, or sexual misconduct. They offer:
- Mental health resources: Access to online self-help mental health courses, mindfulness training, and wellness resources.
- Emergency support: Guidance on accessing emergency helplines and immediate care.
The Student Advice Centre acts as a primary point of contact for students seeking general guidance and practical support. It serves as a signposting service to help students navigate the various university procedures and external resources.
Deirdre Moloney is the dedicated contact person for students to report incidents or concerns regarding bullying, harassment, sexual misconduct, or any other inappropriate behaviour. She can be reached at:
- Email: deirdre.moloney@dcu.ie
- Tel: 087 6640584
The Students' Union provides peer support and advice to members of the student body. They work in partnership with university services to provide a safe space for students to share their experiences and receive non-judgemental guidance.
Students may also choose to disclose experiences to academic leaders, such as Heads of School, Associate Deans, or Programme Chairs. These staff members are responsible for:
- Sensitive response: Responding promptly and respectfully to any disclosures.
- Confidentiality: Respecting the privacy of all parties involved within legal constraints.
- Referral: Knowing where to refer students for professional emotional or practical support.
Anonymous Reporting: Speak Out Tool
The Speak Out tool is a secure, online platform that allows students to report incidents of bullying, cyberbullying, harassment, or sexual misconduct without sharing their identity.
- Confidentiality: The tool is completely anonymous; the University cannot identify or contact the person reporting.
- Signposting: It provides immediate information on available supports and formal reporting procedures.
- Data collection: Data collected through the tool helps the University monitor trends and improve national and institutional policies.