There are varying degrees of assault which are governed by the seriousness of the injury, the harm done and the circumstances concerned, e.g. common assault, actual bodily harm (ABH), grievous bodily harm (GBH) - please note that this list is not exhaustive.
If you are a victim of assault or harassment, or ever witness an assault taking place, you should call the emergency services on 999 and report the incident to the police as soon as possible. Phoning 999 puts you in contact with the central emergency services who will then connect you to either the police, fire services or the ambulance service.
If you wish to report an assault that took place some time ago call the local Bristol police on (0845) 456 7000 or PC Mike Lynette at the University on tel. (0117) 32 82669.