Initiations (sometimes known as hazing or ragging), are events organised by student groups, societies or sports teams, where students are coerced into behaviours which are disrespectful, humiliating and could potentially be dangerous, often under the guise of team or social bonding.
Initiations do not cease to be initiations just because they are given a different name (such as "integrations").
Initiations do not cease to be initiations just because they are given a different name (such as "integrations").
Initiations often encourage:
- Drinking excessive amounts of alcohol very quickly. There is a direct correlation between drinking excessive amounts alcohol in a short space of time and risk of death.
- The committing of criminal acts
- Behaviour which might reasonably be perceived as humiliating, demeaning or degrading
- Actions which would bring the University into disrepute
Initiations are not acceptable at University of Winchester and those involved will be subject to investigation.
Students who are asked to participate in an initiation by the Society or Club that they have joined to gain status or entry to the group should report this to the Students' Union Activities Officer or submit a report in Report and Support.
Students who are asked to participate in an initiation by the Society or Club that they have joined to gain status or entry to the group should report this to the Students' Union Activities Officer or submit a report in Report and Support.
Upon receipt of a report that a student or a group of students have participated in an initiation ceremony, the University will take appropriate action in accordance with the Disciplinary Procedures for Students.
For information on support please see here.