Some forms of forms of physical or verbal misconduct may also be criminal offences or hate crimes.
Verbal misconduct is the use of threatening, abusive or insulting language with the intention of another person alarm, distress or harassment. In some circumstances, verbal assault is a criminal offence.
Verbal misconduct may include but is not limited to:
- Insulting, humiliating or belittling someone.
- Shouting, swearing or using aggressive language.
- Threats to harm another person including threats to spread malicious or false information about someone.
- Speaking in an intimidating and/or hostile manner.
Physical misconduct is any act that intentionally or recklessly causes someone to suffer or fear immediate unlawful violence.
This can include assault which may involve the intentional or reckless use of unlawful force against another person.
No matter what has happened, support is available.
Physical misconduct may include but is not limited to:
- Punching
- Kicking
- Slapping
- Pulling Hair
- Biting
- Use or threatening use of weapons, including knives
- Pushing
- Shoving
You do not need to be certain whether an incident is a criminal offence before seeking support or making a report.
For more information about physical or verbal misconduct, please visit Victim Support.
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I think I have experienced physical or verbal misconduct
I think someone I know has experienced physical or verbal misconduct