Informal Complaints Process
- Students are encouraged to resolve complaints informally with the Lecturer/ Student Support staff before making a formal complaint.
- If unsatisfied, students are further encouraged to speak to the Course Coordinator of their enrolled course and present their complaint. The Course Coordinator will try and resolve the issue and come to a satisfactory solution.
Formal Complaints Process
- Students should complete ‘Complaints and Grievances Form’ below. A hard-copy form is available at IHM campus.
- The complaint is recorded through the Student management system and student profile. The students are informed of the outcome and will be recorded in the student portal.
- IHM will convene a panel which will investigate the complaint and decide on a verdict. This decision is recorded and will be reviewed by the Quality Assurance team for opportunities for continuous improvement.
- During the investigation, the complainant will be given an opportunity to formally present their case and have the option of being accompanied/ assisted by a nominee (such as a family member, friend or counsellor) if they so desire. If the students are using a paid nominee, it will be at their own cost. The nominee must present their photo ID while accompanying the student at any of the appointments at IHM
- Students may use the Formal Appeals Process if they are not satisfied with the outcome of the complaint resolution process.
- If the student is dissatisfied with the resolution proposed by IHM, IHM can refer students to an independent mediator; Student Mediation Scheme provided by Resolution Institute
Student/Staff Complaints and Grievances
Formal Appeals Process
- Students should complete ‘Complaints and Grievances Form’ below. A hard-copy form is available at IHM campus.
- The Appeal is recorded in the Student Complaints and Appeal in the Student management system and Student Profile. The students are informed by email of the outcome of the appeal and will be recorded in the student portal.
- IHM will convene a panel (someone more senior and not previously involved in the case added to the panel for appeals) who will investigate the appeal and decide on a verdict.
- The appellant will be given an opportunity to formally present their case to the panel and have the option of being accompanied/assisted by a nominee (such as a family member, friend or counsellor) if they so desire.
- If the student is dissatisfied with the appeals process by IHM, they can access the provision of an independent mediator; Student Mediation Scheme provided by Resolution Institute.
- For international students, if not satisfied, students may take up the complaint with OMBUDSMAN.
Ombudsman
Complaints about IHM administrative actions and decisions can be made to the Commonwealth Ombudsman at no cost. If students have not followed the steps in these guidelines, the Ombudsman may ask that they do so before accepting their complaints.
Read here.
Timeframes
Timeframes may apply and vary based on individual circumstances.
All complaints must be submitted within a reasonable timeframe of the event occurring.
Anonymous or Unidentified Complainants
Anonymous or unidentified complaints will be investigated at IHM’s discretion. This is dependent upon the nature of the complaint and, if there is enough information, for the investigation.
IHM is not required to send a response to an anonymous or unidentified complainant.
Student Complaints and Appeals Policy
Student Complaints and Appeals Procedure
Student Advocacy
Welcome to the Institute of Health and Management (IHM) Student Advocacy service. Our team is committed to offering support, guidance, representation, and assistance to all IHM students across a variety of issues and challenges they might face during their academic journey.
Our Student Advocates are also on hand to liaise with IHM staff regarding complex student matters and to provide insights into institute’s policies and procedures that are relevant to student interests.
At the Institute of Health and Management, our advocacy model is rooted in pastoral care, designed to exert a positive influence on several key aspects of student life. These include engagement in learning, attendance, academic achievement, retention rates, and both psychological and social wellbeing.
An ‘Advocate’ within our institution is a staff member assigned to a group of students. These groups convene weekly to delve into matters concerning the students’ engagement with their learning environment and to identify any obstacles that may be hindering their success.
We encourage all students to familiarise themselves with the IHM Student Charter, which delineates the rights and responsibilities of every student within the Institute of Health and Management.
Guided by the IHM Independent Advocacy Service, part of our Student Life and Wellbeing protocol, our student support department are dedicated to offering confidential and independent support to students, adhering to the guidelines set forth by the Student Services and Amenities Fee (SSAF).
Our advocacy approach is not solely focused on academic success; it also places a significant emphasis on the wellbeing of our students. During these weekly sessions, topics covered may include:
- Positive Education/Positive Psychology: Fostering an environment that promotes a positive mindset and psychological resilience among students.
- Goal Setting, Study Skills, Time Management: Equipping students with the tools and strategies to effectively plan and achieve their academic and personal goals.
- Resilience: Building the capacity to recover quickly from difficulties; a crucial skill in both academic and personal spheres.
- Respectful Relationships: Encouraging healthy and respectful interactions within the academic community and beyond.
- Student Attendance and Retention: Addressing factors that contribute to regular attendance and sustained engagement with the Institute.
- General Engagement in Learning and Academic Achievement: Enhancing motivation and commitment to learning, leading to improved academic outcomes.
- Psychological and Social Wellbeing: Supporting the overall mental and social health of students, recognising its importance for academic success.
- Career Guidance: Offering advice and resources to help students navigate their future career paths and make informed decisions about their professional lives.
Our advocacy service aims to create a supportive and nurturing environment that recognises and addresses the diverse needs of our students, ensuring they have the support they need to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.
Mental Wellbeing
For more support regarding student’s mental health wellbeing services please refer to:
