A new approach to 24/7 support from the SMSRC

July 28, 2025 – Defence Stories

Estimated read time – 1:30

The Sexual Misconduct Support and Resource Centre (SMSRC) is updating its 24/7 support line to better meet the needs of the wider Defence Team community.

As of July 31, 2025, SMSRC counsellors will be available from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. Eastern Time (ET), 7 days a week. Outside of these hours, from 9 p.m. to 7 a.m., calls will be answered by Health Canada’s Employee Assistance Program (EAP). This trusted partner is well equipped to provide confidential, bilingual, trauma-informed support, ensuring that help is available day or night. Health Canada’s EAP mental health professionals come from diverse backgrounds and are experienced in supporting individuals from a wide range of communities.

This update allows the SMSRC to focus its resources during the hours when most clients reach out for information about programs, services, and support related to sexual misconduct and military sexual trauma. This change is designed with clients in mind to make sure support is available when it is most needed.

If you call after 9 p.m. ET, you will have two options:

• Leave a voicemail with your phone number for an SMSRC counsellor to follow up with you the next day; or
• Be transferred to a qualified mental health professional from Health Canada’s EAP for immediate support. You may also indicate at the time of your call if you would like an SMSRC counsellor to follow up with you on the next day.

This new model is grounded in client needs, best practices, and a commitment to continuous improvement. The SMSRC will monitor the change closely and adjust as needed to ensure services remain responsive and effective.

For more information or to provide feedback, you can contact us at 1-844-750-1648 or DND.SMSRC-CSRIS.MDN@forces.gc.ca.