Independent Investigation
Independent investigation. Clear conclusions
While Orava is committed to supporting Student Conduct Teams and School Leaders to develop the skills and confidence to conduct effective investigations internally, there are times when bringing in an external provider is the most appropriate course of action. Capacity pressures, case complexity, or the need for additional independence can all make external support beneficial.
The Office of the Independent Adjudicator (OIA) Good Practice Framework Consultant: Handling Reports of Harassment and Sexual Misconduct recognises and supports the use of external investigators to help manage workload and to bring in additional expertise where needed.
Orava is well placed to provide this support. Alongside our extensive experience in training and skills development, Orava has significant experience in conducting sensitive and complex investigations. While much of this experience has been gained within the criminal justice environment, it has been successfully applied within higher education casework and decision-making processes, as well as within governance and panel settings. This enables Orava to deliver investigations that are thorough, fair, and handled with care and integrity.
The Orava Approach
A proportionate, sector‑informed approach
Orava does not treat investigations as police enquiries. We recognise that each sector brings its own context, sensitivities, and expectations. Drawing on extensive experience, we take a proportionate and nuanced approach, ensuring every investigation is fair, appropriate, and fit for purpose. All work is aligned with relevant frameworks and guidance, including those issued by the Office of the Independent Adjudicator (OIA) and ACAS along with strict adherence to laws such as the GDPR and Data Protection Act.
Experienced and qualified investigators
All investigations are led by experienced investigators with recognised investigative qualifications developed within the criminal justice system. Orava brings deep expertise across all stages of the investigative process, including complex evidence gathering, robust evidential analysis, and the clear presentation of findings. This experience ensures that evidence is handled appropriately and presented in a way that supports decision‑makers to reach fair, well‑reasoned, and defensible outcomes.
Clear analysis and accessible findings
Orava presents analysis and findings in a clear, structured, and accessible format, designed to support effective and confident decision‑making. Evidence is carefully evaluated and set out in a balanced way, linking findings directly back to the agreed terms of reference and relevant frameworks. Reports are written to be easily understood by panels and decision‑makers, providing clarity, transparency, and a robust basis for fair and informed outcomes.
Transparent Costs
All costs are agreed at the outset, with clear scope and expectations set from the start. There are no hidden fees or unexpected charges. Orava designs its investigation services to be proportionate and cost‑effective, ensuring organisations receive high‑quality, independent support that represents good value while maintaining robustness and integrity.
Complete the form below to arrange a free, no‑obligation consultation with Orava, where we can discuss your case and explore how our independent investigation servicescan best support you