Policy bulletin 686

Commissioner’s Directive (CD) 574 – Sexual Coercion and Violence Framework

The development of this new policy reinforces CSC’s commitment to ensure the provision of safe and secure environments for all inmates.

CSC’s policy framework provides direction for responding to sexual coercion and violence (SCV) incidents and allegations through the application of several CDs and Health Care Guidelines.

This new CD does not aim to alter existing policies and procedures, but rather to streamline existing direction into one cohesive policy, while providing further clarification and important guidance to staff.

This policy also supports findings from Boards of Investigation, lessons learned, and recommendations from the Office of the Correctional Investigator of Canada.

New Guidelines, GL 800-11 – Health Care Response to Sexual Assaults of Persons in Federal Custody, have also been developed to further strengthen the policy framework.

• CD 574 – Sexual Coercion and Violence Framework
• Outlines clear responsibilities incumbent on management and staff across the organization.
• Procedures for preventing, detecting, responding to, reporting on, investigating, and tracking SCV incidents are detailed in the policy.
• Annex A lists applicable cross-references and definitions.
• Annex B – Staff Response Guide aims to facilitate quick reference for staff and to support effective incident management in responding to SCV incidents.

The Correctional Operations and Programs Sector’s Security Operations Division developed this policy in collaboration with the Policy Sector’s Strategic Policy Division, and with input from internal and external stakeholders.

The new policy affects all staff and contractors working in institutions, including Community Correctional Centres, and offenders.

Roles and responsibilities are detailed in the policy document.