University of Alberta

Helping Individuals at Risk

What is the Helping Individuals at Risk (HIAR) Policy?

Helping Individuals at Risk is a new policy on campus that was developed after a comprehensive two year consultation process with the University community. It was formally enacted in September 2010.  Implementation Memo

This Policy applies to all members of the University community, and can be found, along with HIAR Procedures, in the University of Alberta Policies and Procedures Online (UAPPOL).  U of A Policies

The policy was developed because the University of Alberta is committed to supporting a healthy academic and work environment.  Recognizing At Risk Behavior and responding with interest and concern are critical factors in preventing potential violence. 

What is the Purpose of the HIAR Policy?

The purpose of this Policy is to:

  • Provide assistance to individuals at risk of harming themselves or others, before a situation escalates.
  • Facilitate early identification of At Risk Behavior. 
  • Provide a confidential, centralized location for reports of At Risk Behavior to be received and consolidated.

Consolidating reports will enable seemingly isolated incidents to be connected so that At Risk Behavior can be properly assessed and the Individual At Risk offered assistance when deemed appropriate.

It is important to note that this Policy is not punitive, and is instead designed to provide assistance to individuals at risk.  Reporting At Risk Behavior is encouraged to ensure that the connecting the dots aspects of the Policy are met.

Who is an Individual at Risk?

An individual at risk is a member of the University Community who has exhibited At Risk Behavior.

What is At Risk Behavior?

At Risk Behavior is a person’s words or conduct that, while not indicative of a clear immediate threat, gives rise to a reasonable apprehension that he or she may be at risk of harming themselves or others.  Click here to see examples of At Risk Behavior.