I need support

First Point of Contact (FPOC) | Sexual Violence & Harassment (SVH)

If you’ve experienced or been affected by sexual violence or harassment, you can speak with a First Point of Contact (FPOC). FPOCs are trained members of the university community who offer confidential, non-judgmental support.

You can talk to an FPOC if:

• You want to share what happened in a safe space.
• You need help understanding your options.
• You’re thinking about making a report to the University or to An Garda Síochána.
• You’ve been named in a report and want support.
• They can also provide support if you think you may have caused harm.

What is a First Point of Contact (FPOC)?

FPOCs are specially trained staff or students who can receive disclosures of sexual violence and harassment under University Policy QA361. They are volunteers who care and want to help. They:

• Offer confidential support (nothing is shared without your permission unless there is a serious risk to safety).
• Are here for anyone affected—including survivors, those supporting someone, or those who have been accused.

FPOCs are supported by:

• The Office of the Vice President for Equality, Diversity and Inclusion.
• Student Counselling Services
• Active*Consent

Together, they help ensure FPOCs receive ongoing training, support, and supervision.

What Can an FPOC Do?

FPOCs are here to help you feel heard and supported. They can:

• Listen without judgment
• Explain your options and help you explore next steps
• Share contact details for specialist services—both on campus and externally
• Provide guidance on reporting to the University or An Garda Síochána [Police]
• Respect your confidentiality, except in cases of serious risk or child protection concerns

They can also provide support if you have been accused of breaching University policy.

What FPOCs Don’t Do

FPOCs do not:

• Act as advocates or representatives in formal University processes
• Offer legal advice or counselling
• Decide what you should do—they support you to make informed choices

Making a Disclosure to an FPOC

You can make a confidential* disclosure to a trained FPOC. This may be your first time sharing your experience—and how it's received matters. FPOCs are trained to respond with care and sensitivity.

After a disclosure, FPOCs will usually offer:

• Information about available supports (on campus and beyond)
• Guidance on how to report to An Garda Síochána
• Information on where to go for guidance on the University's Sexual Violence and Harassment Policy 

*Disclosures are confidential unless:

• There is a serious risk to your safety or someone else's
• There are concerns about the safety or welfare of a child

Contacting an FPOC

You can find contact details, biographies, and photos of trained FPOCs below. Reach out when you’re ready. You’re in control of what happens next.

What can I say?

Reaching out can be tough — and that’s completely okay. Our FPOCs have been trained to support you and understand that this can be a stressful and overwhelming time. If it helps, you’re welcome to use the email template below to get in touch with a FPOC.

Subject: FPOC | Reaching Out for Support

Dear [FPOC Name],

I came across your details as an FPOC volunteer on the university website, and I’m reaching out because I’m looking for some support right now. Would it be possible to meet and talk through some options for what my next steps could be? I’d really appreciate your guidance.

Please let me know when might be a good time for you to meet.

Thank you,
[Your Name]

First Point of Contact (FPOC) | Contact Details