Guiding Principles of the Service
LUSU Advice works within the wider ethical framework of the student’s union direction, mission and values statement but in addition abides by the following guiding principles:
Free & Accessible
- Advice and information is totally free of charge to all Lancaster University students and associate members
- Advisers will be open, friendly, professional and give the opportunity to discuss comprehensively their situation
- Advisers will endeavour to provide a non-judgemental and inclusive service for students within a conducive setting
- Students can expect to receive equal and unbiased representation and access to services and be free from harassment irrespective of: gender, race, ethnic or cultural origin, marital status, family responsibilities, sexuality or sexual orientation, HIV status, transsexual or transgender identity, age, belief system, mental health status, disability, socio-economic background or status and/or any other irrelevant distinction.
More information is available on our service provision and accessibility policy.
Impartiality
- LUSU Advice offers a professional and unbiased service, which is unprejudiced towards or against any viewpoint.
- In the event an individual adviser feels working with a particular client would compromise their professional integrity and thus place the client at a disadvantage, the student will be referred to an alternative adviser.
- Where ever possible advisers will explore within their knowledge base, a range of ethical and legal options available to the client.
- Where action is bound by institutional or statutory procedures this will be explained to the client.
- Advice given is independent of any external bodies, including the University.
These situations are governed by our Conflict of interests procedures.
Humanity & Professionalism
- Advisers are committed to:
- Remaining sensitive to the diversity of the client base and the issues this may entail
- Keeping knowledge up to date and accurate through relevant training and development.
Empowerment
- Advisers’ roles are to comprehensively explore possible courses of action and potential consequences, to enable and empower the client to make an informed decision on how best to approach their problem.
- Students can withdrawal from using the service at any time.
Confidentiality
- The service is confidential and operates within the boundaries of the Service Confidentiality Policy.