Join the first SMSRC Community Consultation Group for People Affected by Sexual Misconduct

May 19, 2023 - Defence Stories

On 11 May 2023, the Sexual Misconduct Support and Resource Centre (SMSRC) invited members of the wider Defence community affected by sexual misconduct to join its first community consultation group. This group will provide an opportunity for those that have been affected by sexual misconduct to directly engage with the SMSRC and help shape its programs, services, and initiatives.

Meaningful engagements with the SMSRC on programs and services

The SMSRC recognizes that feedback, dialogue, and recommendations from the Defence community is critical to continue to improve and develop its programs and services.

The SMSRC will use information from the community consultation group discussions, feedback, and recommendations to inform existing and future programs, services and initiatives. These contributions will guide the SMSRC engagement framework and ensure that the needs of those affected by sexual misconduct continue to be reflected in the SMSRC's work.

What you can expect

Individuals interested in being part of the SMSRC community consultation group can participate in a variety of ways including one-on-one discussions, feedback surveys and/or group sessions. Virtual group sessions will be facilitated to promote open, confidential and, if desired, anonymous interactions in a trauma-informed, culturally humble, and survivor-centred approach.

The SMSRC community consultation group will be diverse, including individuals of various ages, language, gender identity, location, racial/ethno-cultural identity, rank, relationship to the Defence community, sexual identities, and visible or invisible disabilities.

First consultation sessions will begin in fall 2023. The SMSRC will invite individuals that have submitted their interest to speak with a member of the SMSRC team to discuss matters such as security, confidentiality, personal accommodation, and informed consent.

How to join

Members of the wider Defence community – current and former CAF members/Veterans and DND public service employees, families and supporters of those affected by sexual misconduct – can submit an their interest by completing the form and sending it to SMSRC.Partnerships-Partenariats.CSRIS@forces.gc.ca.

Interest forms received by 23 June 2023 will be used to identify individuals for consultations that will start in the fall of 2023. Forms received after that date will be kept for subsequent consultations.

For more information, contact us by email at SMSRC.Partnerships-Partenariats.CSRIS@forces.gc.ca or call the SMSRC confidential 24/7 support line at 1-844-750-1648.