Guidance on statements for Stage 2 Panels

Your written response can be presented in a way that is helpful to you.

Our suggestions:

• stick to facts as far as possible, avoiding emotive language
• be honest about what happened
• state if you feel there is anywhere you should have acted differently – panels tend to appreciate this honesty and reflection

Structure your statement with a heading and introduction, for example, Your Name, student number then, ‘I submit this statement for the panel’s consideration’.

Main body of your statement:

This is where you can respond to the allegations with reference to the statement of case and any other information and evidence you have received in the papers outlining the case.

• A clear, honest and reflective account of the facts – giving your account of what happened and your actions
• Admission of anything you accept responsibility for
• Recognition of the importance of the case, and why the University would have concerns about what happened
• For students on professional programmes (PSRB) - Awareness of the professional code, for example, look at the sections of the code that have been raised
• Demonstrate and ability to self-reflect on your behaviour and/or conduct
• Are there any discrepancies in the information in the papers
• Information that might demonstrate your general good character and conduct within the University, employment and/or volunteering activities – can you demonstrate that any misconduct was out of character and will never happen again?
• An account of what you have learned from this experience and how you will adapt your behaviour in future
• Take care to be polite and professional in your choice of language
• Avoid emotive language - the panel will appreciate that this is important for you and they should just stick to the facts
• Take care to show them you take the issues seriously

Closing

You may like to stress the value of your place and your time at University and make any summary remarks you would like the panel to consider. You should then sign the statement.

The Advice Team are here to help you with your case. For personalised advice or to ask further questions please email su.advice@northumbria.ac.uk