Conflict of Interest Policy – Advice Centre

Introduction

The Advice Centre is committed to providing confidential advice and support to GCU students experiencing a wide range of difficulties. Student Advisers handle individual enquiries, and occasionally a conflict of interest may arise if an Adviser feels they cannot provide impartial advice.

Conflicts may occur if an Adviser is approached by both parties in a dispute. Advisers take care to share information internally to identify any potential conflict early.

If both parties request representation from the same Adviser, the student (or group) who contacts the Advice Centre first will be represented by that Adviser. The second student (or group) will be referred to another Adviser to maintain impartiality and confidentiality.

For disputes involving more than two sides, the Advice Centre will assist students in finding alternative representation, such as another support service or an external agency.

Note: A group of students making a complaint against one other student is treated as a single case against that student.

Procedure

When there are two sides involved in a dispute:

1. The student (or group) who approached the Adviser first will be represented by them. Exception: if the second student already has an existing case file with that Adviser.
2. The other student (or group) will be offered representation from the second Student Adviser.
3. Normally, Advisers can only handle two sides at a time. For cases with more than two sides, students will be referred to alternative representation.
4. Once sides are assigned to specific Advisers, confidentiality must be maintained. Basic information (e.g., conflict of interest, meeting dates) may be shared, but no details from students should be disclosed before formal proceedings.

Referral

If a student cannot be advised due to a conflict of interest:

1. They may be referred to another agency, such as a University Positive Living Counsellor or an external service.
2. They will be informed that the Advice Centre can still support them for other issues, except for the current conflict situation.

Additional Conflict of Interest

Conflicts may also arise if a student receiving advice engages an independent party (e.g., a lawyer). Advisers will notify the student that a potential conflict exists, as the Advice Centre can only advise within University regulations.

Records and Review

The conflict of interest policy and procedures are reviewed regularly. Any reported cases will be discussed with the Student Advisers, and records of conflicts will be maintained.