Sexual Misconduct Support and Resource Centre Annual Report 2023–2024
ISSN 2817-8963
Message from the Chief Operating Officer
I am pleased to present the Sexual Misconduct Support and Resource Centre Highlights for 2023–2024. This report marks a milestone for our organization as we introduce a new, more accessible format designed to provide a clearer and more comprehensive view of our activities, programs and services that directly and indirectly support people affected by sexual misconduct.
The past year has been one of profound resilience and growth. We have continued to support people affected by sexual misconduct, and advocate for changes that help foster a safer community. This new report format aims to transparently highlight the breadth of our work, and the progress we have made in the last fiscal year.
Our work is deeply personal and grounded in a "people first" approach, and we remain committed to offering a safe, supportive environment for everyone who seeks our help. We know how difficult it can be to reach out, and we are here to ensure that no one walks this path alone.
Thank you for your trust, your support, and your unwavering commitment to working with us, as we continue to create and evolve our programs to support changing needs.
With gratitude,
Linda Rizzo Michelin
Chief Operating Officer
About the Sexual Misconduct Support and Resource Centre
The Sexual Misconduct Support and Resource Centre (SMSRC) provides support services for current and former Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) members, National Defence (DND) public service employees, Cadets, Junior Canadian Rangers, and family members of the wider Defence Community. Services are currently available to those who are 16 years and older, including individuals directly affected by sexual misconduct and those supporting a loved one who is affected. Additionally, the SMSRC supports leaders and management seeking guidance on addressing sexual misconduct and the best ways to support those directly affected.
The data presented below highlights the SMSRC's key achievements in 2023–2024.
- 1,496 total calls to the SMSRC 24/7 line
- 71.9% were new callers
- 28.1% were repeat callers
- 48.3% of callers self-described as women
- 36.6% of callers self-described as men
- 14.6% of callers did not disclose
- 0.5% self described as another gender
- 43 projects receiving funding from the SMSRC Grant Program
- 11 new Grant Program projects were funded in 2023–2024
- Over 580 class members onboarded to the Restorative Engagement Program
- 5,452 SMSRC outreach session attendees
Expenses |
Amount |
|---|---|
Support to Programs (including outreach and communications) |
$5,776,858 |
Restorative Engagement |
$10,132,297 |
Grants |
$2,193,577 |
Programs and Services |
$10,482,578 |
Total |
$28,585,310 |
Programs and services
24/7 Response and Support Line
The SMSRC operates a 24/7 bilingual and toll-free line, 1-844-750-1648, where callers can receive supportive counselling, information on options, referrals to care and service organizations, and guidance on supporting others.
2023–2024 highlights and achievements
Relationships
Built new relationships with community organizations and updated the SMSRC's online resource search tool. With close to 800 resources Canada-wide, this initiative helps clients, community members, and stakeholders find local support services.
Youth services
Ensured all 24/7-line counsellors engaged in ongoing training to deliver quality support services to all new clients, including Cadets and Junior Canadian Rangers aged 16 and older.
Text and Talk service development
Established service standards and processes for the SMSRC Text and Talk mobile application which is currently in development.
Quick facts
- The average 24/7 response and support line call length was 21.82 minutes
Primary reason for call |
Number of calls (new callers) |
|---|---|
Sexual misconduct (unspecified) |
415 |
Request for information |
232 |
Sexual assault |
213 |
Outside mandate |
90 |
Sexual harassment |
78 |
Inappropriate sexual behaviour |
32 |
Follow up from client |
5 |
Other sexual offence |
5 |
Abuse of authority |
4 |
Follow up from counsellor |
1 |
Response and Support Coordination (RSC)
Through the RSC program, coordinators in regions across Canada, work directly with clients to ensure they receive the tailored support and resources they need including:
- referrals
- advocacy
- accompaniments
- assistance
2023–2024 highlights and achievements
Operational improvements
Enhanced operational procedures by conducting regular reviews of interventions and clinical notes, continuously improving standards and procedures based on best practices in the field of intervention. The reviews allowed the SMSRC to improve consent procedures for clients.
Community connections
Built connections with local programs and service providers in communities across Canada. The new connections helped raise awareness of the SMSRC and expand services through targeted initiatives and partnerships with community organizations.
Quick facts
- 143 new client cases opened by the SMSRC's RSC Program in 2023–2024
Type of service |
Number of instances |
|---|---|
Supportive counselling |
1,916 |
Information |
1,329 |
Consultation |
264 |
Meeting |
131 |
Facilitated |
45 |
Accompaniment |
35 |
Practical assistance |
29 |
Accompaniment - police |
4 |
Nature of incidents |
Number of cases opened |
|---|---|
Sexual assault |
109 |
Sexual harassment |
37 |
Inappropriate sexual behaviour |
24 |
Peer Support Program
The Peer Support Program provides support to those affected by sexual misconduct and military sexual trauma through connections with trained peer supporters who offer emotional support, information, and guidance throughout the healing process.
2023–2024 highlights and achievements
Group services
Launched virtual formal group services in June 2023 for CAF members, veterans/former CAF members, Cadets, Junior Canadian Rangers, and current/former DND public service employees 18 years and older affected by sexual misconduct and military sexual trauma during their service or at their workplace. These groups offered participants up to 10 virtual sessions co-facilitated by a trained peer supporter and a mental health professional.
Quick facts
- 211 communication exchanges with the Peer Support Program
- Supported 8 Formal groups co-facilitated by trained peer supporters with lived experience and mental health professionals.
- 94% of survey respondents agreed or strongly agreed that the group discussions during the sessions were helpful to them.
- 91% of survey respondents agreed or strongly agreed that they felt supported throughout the group sessions.
- 85% of survey respondents agreed or strongly agreed that the information provided in the sessions met their expectations.
- 86% of survey respondents agreed or strongly agreed that they would recommend these sessions to future participants
Restorative Engagement Program
The Restorative Engagement program was mandated through the Canadian Armed Forces-Department of National Defence Sexual Misconduct Class Action Settlement. It provides supportive and facilitated restorative opportunities for Canadian Armed Forces and National Defence Sexual Misconduct Class Action Members to be heard and acknowledged, and for Defence Representatives to learn, understand, plan, act, and lead as catalysts for culture change.
2023–2024 highlights and achievements
Pilot project
Launched a pilot project in collaboration with the Royal Canadian Air Force, leveraging collaboration with the Defence representative Alumni Community. The project increased Defence representatives' availability and integrated their learnings from the program. This bolstered the program's ability to meet the high demand from class members.
Class member communication
Reached out to all class members who had expressed their interest in participating in the program to ensure they have the opportunity to participate. This allowed the program to get a better sense of class members requirements to ensure the program can meet their demand. It also increased the number of class members who are ready for engagement opportunities to be assigned to a restorative practitioner.
Program enhancements
Implemented program enhancements informed by partners, stakeholders, former participants, and subject matter experts. As a result, a wider range of participation options were developed for Defence representatives, which allowed for greater availability for class member engagements and senior leader participation. These enhancements will allow the program to be more responsive to class members' requests for engagement.
Quick facts
- By March 31, 2024, over 1,200 Class Members confirmed their interest in participating in the program
- The gender distribution among participants shows that 65% are female, 34% are male, and 1% includes non-binary and 2SLGBTQI+ individuals
- A total of 138 Defence representatives across the country, with a composition of 27.7% DND public service employees and 72.3% CAF members
- This diverse distribution of Defence representatives reflects a balanced representation within the program, catering to the varied needs and perspectives of participants
- Onboarded 48 restorative practitioners between April and October 2023
Region |
Class members per region |
|---|---|
East/National Capital Region |
32.8% |
Central |
22.6% |
Atlantic |
17.3% |
Prairies |
16.8% |
Pacific |
10.4% |
Region |
Defence representatives per region |
|---|---|
East/National Capital Region |
17% |
Central |
33% |
Atlantic |
23% |
Prairies |
17% |
Pacific |
10% |
Independent Legal Assistance Program
The Independent Legal Assistance (ILA) Program supports individuals who have experienced military sexual misconduct by providing legal advice, information, and representation in the military and criminal justice systems. The ILA Program currently provides reimbursements for eligible legal costs incurred by those who have experienced military sexual misconduct.
2023–2024 highlights and achievements
Program launch
Launched the first phase of the ILA Program in May 2023, providing reimbursements for eligible legal costs incurred by those who have experienced military sexual misconduct.
Collaboration
Worked closely with the Canadian Forces Legal Advisor and Office of the Judge Advocate General, as well as consulting the community through the Community consultations initiative, to ensure all aspects of the ILA Program align with the 2022 Independent External Comprehensive Review by Justice Louise Arbour.
Program evolution
Prepared to launch a second phase in the 2024–2025 fiscal year, which includes staffing a lawyer to provide direct legal information and assistance and raising awareness among potential clients.
Organizational Learning Management Team
In 2023–2024, the SMSRC's Training and Education team transitioned into the Organizational Learning and Management Team (OLM) with a new mandate: To manage a range of learning activities to build individual and organizational capacity.
2023–2024 highlights and achievements
Staff assistance visits
Conducted 16 Staff Assistance Visits across Canada to ensure the delivery of Respect in the CAF workshop content is current and trauma-informed.
Operational review
Conducted a review of daily operations to improve the SMSRC's responsiveness, efficiency, and credibility.
Outreach support
Assisted with delivering presentations about the SMSRC, Trauma-Informed Approach and a hybrid of the two presentations, providing tools and resources for DND/CAF leaders in addressing sexual misconduct and information for those affected.
Competency development
Worked with Programs and Services to determine core competencies required for SMSRC service providers.
Quick facts
- Organized various specialized training sessions, including:
- 4 Sessions with 94 employees participating to refine and support specialized skills in assisting and supporting men with trauma
- Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training for 71 employees in 6 workshops to ensure staff are better able to support clients in times of crisis
- 14 Sessions of Conversations on Defence Ethics for 180 employees, facilitating conversations on ethics in the workplace
Community Support for Sexual Misconduct Survivors Grant Program
The Community Support for Sexual Misconduct Survivors Grant Program funds projects led by community-based, not-for-profit service providers across Canada to expand support services for those affected by sexual misconduct. The funding helps increase access to counselling, peer support, and other critical resources in local communities.
2023–2024 highlights and achievements
Funded projects
Funded 32 projects in the first call for applications, with 9 one-time projects completed in 2023–2024.
Addressed gaps in funding
Launched a second call for applications to address gaps, prioritizing underserved populations, and remote locations, including six provinces/territories where agreements were not established in the first call. Funded 11 new projects.
Quick facts
- Over 800 Defence community members have been reached through funded projects
Region |
Number of projects |
|---|---|
Ontario |
16 |
Quebec |
6 |
Nova Scotia |
5 |
British Columbia |
4 |
Manitoba |
3 |
Newfoundland and Labrador |
3 |
Alberta |
2 |
New Brunswick |
2 |
Saskatchewan |
2 |
Type of service |
Percentage |
|---|---|
Counselling |
26.80% |
Education |
26.80% |
Outreach |
20.62% |
Peer support |
10.31% |
Other |
9.28% |
Research |
3.09% |
Resource navigation |
3.09% |
External Advisory Council
The SMSRC's External Advisory Council (EAC) was established in 2018 to provide independent, third-party advice on issues related to sexual misconduct in the Department of National Defence (DND) and Canadian Armed Forces (CAF).
2023–2024 highlights and achievements
Meetings
The EAC met three times throughout the year, including one in-person meeting in fall 2023.
Topics
Discussed the results of the 2022 Survey on Sexual Misconduct in the Canadian Armed Forces, the comprehensive model for the Independent Legal Assistance Program and the recommendation from the Independent External Comprehensive Review on the EAC's role, composition, and governance. The EAC members provided valuable feedback and advice that helped inform these programs and activities.
Policy, Research, and Partnerships
The SMSRC conducts research, analysis, and consultations on sexual misconduct within the Defence community, focusing on the prevalence, impacts, and best practices for prevention and response. This evidence-based work informs the development of policies, programs, and initiatives to address sexual misconduct, providing guidance and information on sexual misconduct prevention and responses.
2023–2024 highlights and achievements
Community consultations
Launched an initiative to invite wider Defence community members to provide feedback to improve support services and programs for people affected by sexual misconduct. Hosted the SMSRC's first consultations in fall 2023.
Subject Matter Expertise (SME)
Provided expert recommendations on trauma-informed approach to the House of Commons Standing Committee on Veterans Affairs. Advised the DND/CAF on key priorities including the repeal of Duty to Report, amendments to policies related to sexual misconduct and related training, education. GBA Plus, intersectionality considerations, and trauma-informed practices aided in program and protocol development.
Independent External Comprehensive Review (IECR)
Collaborated with internal and interdepartmental stakeholders to implement IECR recommendations impacting the SMSRC. In 2023–2024, IECR recommendations 15 on the ownership of training and prevention and 43 on the SMSRC's ability to direct an administrative investigation, were fully implemented.
Survey on Sexual Misconduct in the CAF (SSMCAF)
Coordinated with Statistics Canada to launch the third cycle of the SSMCAF. The results report was released by Statistics Canada on December 5, 2023. The SMSRC began work on interpreting the findings and analysis to inform policies and initiatives promoting culture change and support services for individuals affected by sexual misconduct.
Quick facts
- 77 community members were involved in the SMSRC's first Community Consultations which ensured the SMSRC understood the community's preferences on the consultation topics
- Community Consultations on the terms of reference for Community Consultations, the Independent Legal Assistance Program were held
Communications, Marketing and Outreach
The Communications, Marketing and Outreach team provides strategic communications advice and support across the SMSRC.
2023–2024 highlights and achievements
Social media
Built on the SMSRC's existing presence on X (formerly Twitter), Facebook and LinkedIn. Social media focused on maintaining high post engagement rates to ensure effective reach and interaction with the SMSRC's large target audience.
Outreach
Increased awareness of the SMSRC's programs and services using a variety of communication methods that included digital marketing tools (i.e. social media, web, etc.) promotional material, SMSRC presence at internal and external events and virtual and in-person information sessions, delivered in collaboration with personnel from the 24/7 line, the RSC Team, and the Military Liaison Team. All outreach efforts will be guided by a trauma-informed approach. This strategy is person-centered, trauma-informed, respectful, safe and culturally appropriate.
Quick facts
- 58,961 visitors to the SMSRC website landing page
- The Communication's Outreach team facilitated 196 sessions and events that were delivered to over 5,452 DND/CAF members and the wider Defence community
Military Liaison Team (MLT)
The Military Liaison Team (MLT) is a key partner in the SMSRC's comprehensive approach to addressing sexual misconduct in the DND/CAF communities. The MLT consists of three Military Liaison Officers and a Military Police Liaison Officer.
2023–2024 highlights and achievements
Guidance and support
Provided information and guidance about internal CAF policies and procedures to individuals impacted by sexual misconduct and those supporting them. These efforts have increased responsiveness from Chains of Command and established the team as a valuable resource for CAF members and Chains of Command.
Quick facts
- Participated in 93 outreach sessions and assisted in planning and coordinating SMSRC outreach visits to various bases
- Provided 8 training sessions to SMSRC staff as part of onboarding and professional development activities
- Handled 280 referrals over the past year, with most calls related to investigation status, duty to report, and reporting incidents of sexual misconduct
Moving forward
As SMSRC moves into the upcoming fiscal year, the organization will continue to focus on strengthening its foundation and expanding its impact. This will start with finalizing a mandate revision for the SMSRC initiated as a result of the recommendations of the Independent External Comprehensive Review, the many mandate changes that have occurred over the last few years and to better align with the organization's current focus.
To ensure we continuously improve programs and services to meet the evolving needs of those affected by sexual misconduct, SMSRC will also design and launch a client experience survey, designed to gather invaluable feedback on our programs, services, and resources.
To complement that, in the first half of the year, the teams that make up the SMSRC will embark on a strategic planning process that will solidify the organization's vision, mission, values to ensure goals and priorities align with the new mandate, and the evolving needs of the client groups and the community. This process will involve gathering input from personnel and key stakeholders, evaluating and strengthening current programs and services, and setting clear priorities for the years ahead.
From a resource's standpoint, stabilizing SMSRC's resources is another key priority, starting with its annual allocated budget. By securing sustainable funding sources, SMSRC will continue to offer vital support and resources for years to come. SMSRC will continue to refine existing programs and services, making sure they are as effective and accessible as possible.
In the coming year, we will continue to increase awareness of SMSRC programs and services by expanding outreach efforts and ensuring that information, services and resources are accessible to people who may need them. SMSRC will continue to strengthen its partnerships with national and local organizations to help provide comprehensive support to people affected by sexual misconduct.
Looking ahead, SMSRC remains committed to building on its foundation, continually improving its programs and services, and working towards a future where everyone feels safer, respected and supported.
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