McMaster launches Sexual Violence Response Protocol

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McMaster University now has a clear way of providing guidance to community members on how to effectively respond to, and support, survivors of sexual violence.

McMaster has launched its new Sexual Violence Response Protocol, which sets out guidelines for how staff, faculty and students can provide a consistent and supportive response to those who disclose sexual and gender-based violence.

An accompanying website outlines the steps found in the Protocol as well as resources available both on and off campus.

Highlights of the Protocol include:

• placing the highest priority on survivor safety and ensuring the campus is welcoming, safe and inclusive for all members of the community
• ensuring that all students, faculty and staff know where to go for support
• encouraging members of the McMaster community who have experienced sexual violence to access the confidential supports available to them

“McMaster is committed to ensuring that all members of the community understand the importance of survivor safety,” says Milé Komlen, Director of Human Rights & Equity Services.

Meaghan Ross, McMaster’s Sexual Violence Response Coordinator, will introduce the Protocol at three upcoming information sessions: Dec. 7 at 12:30 p.m. in MUSC 224 and 5:30 p.m. in MUSC 313, and Dec. 9 at 3:30 p.m. in MUSC 224.

“The Protocol is the next step in doing everything we can to promote a safe campus for all students, faculty, staff and visitors,” Ross says. “This is an ongoing responsibility and the launch of the Protocol is one of the many initiatives McMaster is undertaking in this area.”

All are welcome at the sessions.

Ross is also available to provide in-depth training for campus departments, organizations and teams. She can be contacted at rossm4@mcmaster.ca.

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