We are now the Sexual Misconduct Support and Resource Centre (SMSRC)

February 14, 2023 - Defence Stories

There have been many positive changes for the Sexual Misconduct Support and Resource Centre (SMSRC – previously known as the Sexual Misconduct Response Centre) over the last few months. First, Linda Rizzo Michelin was appointed as Chief Operating Officer in August 2022 to lead the SMSRC. Second, to better reflect who we are and what we do, we’ve changed our name to SMSRC. Rest assured, we continue to provide support services and resources to those affected by sexual misconduct. We are committed to keeping you informed of any notable developments on a regular basis so here are a few:

Independent Legal Assistance Program: We are developing an Independent Legal Assistance (ILA) Program, which will provide access to free, independent legal information, advice and representation for current and former members of the Defence community that have been affected by sexual misconduct. As an interim measure, the program will provide reimbursement for eligible legal expenses incurred as of April 1, 2019, following one or more incidents of sexual misconduct. Further details about this program will be shared in the coming months.

Grant Program: On October 18, 2022, we launched a call for applications for the SMSRC’s new Community Support for Sexual Misconduct Survivors Grant Program. We received over 50 applications and we are completing the selection of projects that will increase access to services and programs across the country for people affected by sexual misconduct. We look forward to sharing the successful funding recipients soon.

National Call-Out for Persons Affected by Sexual Misconduct: We will soon be launching a national call out for persons affected by sexual misconduct interested in getting involved in our consultation and engagement efforts. We want to develop a network of individuals with diverse backgrounds and perspectives to ensure that the SMSRC programs and services are tailored to the needs of the diverse community.

Peer Support Program: In June 2022, we presented a model that illustrates the different options and features that will be part of the Military Sexual Trauma (MST) Peer Support Program. It is being developed along with Veterans Affairs Canada and members of the MST community who wish to provide feedback. Togetherall (you are now leaving the Government of Canada website), an online peer support discussion platform was the first option offered. Since its launch, we have received a lot of feedback and the team is working to address it and improve the platform. The next option we are currently working on is the in-person formal peer support group that will be supported by a mental health professional. We will share more updates when this option becomes available to you.

Response and Support Coordination Program: Since 2019, the Response and Support Coordination Program has been providing ongoing, remote and in-person support and assistance such as case coordination, advocacy, accompaniment and assistance with workplace arrangements. Initially, coordinators were only located in the National Capital Region, however we have since expanded to the Quebec region and the Pacific region. In-person teams are expected to deliver services in all regions across the country including Atlantic, Prairies and the rest of Ontario in the coming months. In the meantime, our trained coordinators can support remotely or travel if necessary to sites across Canada.

Restorative Engagement Program: The SMSRC Restorative Engagement (RE) program is part of the CAF-DND Sexual Misconduct Class Action Settlement. Class members who sent in a claim could choose to express interest in the program as part of their settlement. The SMSRC launched the RE program in its initial operating capability on November 15, 2021. Since then, almost 200 class members have been contacted. Several have participated in the program, with seven (7) cohorts of Defence representatives who have learned to engage restoratively and gathered the lessons they learned from the engagements. We know there are more than 5,400 class members who are interested in the program and it is our commitment that each one will be able to participate in it. Class members will be contacted in the order in which their claims were submitted.

Next Steps: We are planning a community update live event in early spring. Stay tuned! In the meantime, please do not hesitate to send us your comments, suggestions and/or constructive feedback either by filling out the form available on our website, or by emailing us at DND.SMRC-CIIS.MDN@forces.gc.ca.

Please remember, should you need support or access to resources, you can speak with one of our trained counsellors by calling our 24/7 line at 1-844-750-1648 anytime.