Sexual Misconduct Support and Resource Centre Restorative Engagement Program Updates – Summer 2025

Invitation to Participate

If you want to participate in the RE Program, please let us know by September 30, 2025, by:

• filling out the intake form;
• emailing RE-DR@forces.gc.ca; or
• by calling 1-844-750-1648.

Responding by this time will help us plan ahead and make sure that all class members who wish to participate can do so before the program ends on March 31, 2026.

If you have already completed an intake form, you do not need to fill out another one. We will contact you as we move forward with scheduling participation.

To learn more or explore whether the RE Program is right for you please visit our webpage About Restorative Engagement.

Participating in the RE Program – Frequently Asked Questions

Is my participation confidential?

Yes, your participation and the information shared within the RE program is confidential within legal limitations. All personal information is handled in accordance with the Privacy Act. When you first meet with a restorative practitioner, they will share more details about the legal limits of confidentiality so that you can make an informed choice to participate or not.

Can I participate in an engagement session without disclosing my name or identity?

It depends on the kind of engagement session you choose. A restorative practitioner can explain the different options for participation in greater detail, including which options can allow you to participate without sharing identifying information.

What is the time commitment?

The time commitment in RE program will depend on the kind of engagement session you select. The restorative practitioner will collaborate with you to determine how often you meet and for how long. Once your engagement session is completed, an additional 1 to 3 hours of follow-up may occur.

Can I choose how I participate and what I share?

Yes, each class member can choose if they would like to engage individually or as a group, and if they would like their engagement to be done directly or indirectly. A restorative practitioner can explain what each of these options means in greater detail.

For all engagement options, you may choose to share as much or as little you like on topics of your choice, such as:

• anything about your experiences of sexual misconduct, and/or
• the impact it has had on your life and/or
• your insights into the causes of this issue and/or
• what needs to change in DND/CAF

Where and how do engagement sessions take place?

The format of your engagement session will depend on the option you choose. A direct engagement session can take place in person, in your local area, virtually using MS Teams, or over the phone. An indirect engagement session can be facilitated by email or through Canada Post Connect.

You can learn more about the different participation options on the Restorative Engagement website.

Is providing a written submission an option, instead of meeting directly?

Yes, you may choose to participate in an indirect engagement session, which allows class members to create a submission to be shared with a Defence representative. Your submission could be a written statement, an audio recording, a video, or artwork. This would be shared with a Defence representative through a restorative practitioner. You can then choose if you would like to receive a written response from the Defence representative or not.

Can I have a support person with me, throughout the process?

Yes, you can choose to involve a support person. Whether they can be involved in the engagement session, or only in the preparation sessions will depend on the engagement option you choose.

Are there opportunities to share feedback about my experience in the RE program?

Yes. We want to hear from you. Opportunities to provide feedback about your experience within the RE program are available. You can choose one or more of the following options:

• Fill the SMSRC client experience feedback form.
• Submit a written reflection about your experience in the RE program.
  • If you choose this option, please fill out the Class Member Consent Form and our team will contact you with more information.

We encourage you to share in the way you feel most comfortable. Hearing directly from class members helps us improve the program and support culture change.

Why does participating in the RE program matter?

The RE program gives class members the opportunity to share their experiences confidentially and be heard. It is also meant to support culture change in the institution by helping Defence representatives learn directly from class members. Through their participation, Defence representatives can better understand the impact of sexual misconduct and take steps to lead and support change. We know that the RE program is not for everyone. Many class members choose to opt out for a variety of reasons. Participation in the RE program is completely voluntary.

What additional support options are available?

The SMSRC offers a variety of services that may be helpful. Whether you have already participated in the RE program, are waiting to take part, or have chosen not to participate, these services are available to you and your family members and supporters.

SMSRC programs provide support to people directly or indirectly affected by sexual misconduct, 16 years and older, such as:

• CAF members
• Former CAF members/Veterans
• Current and former DND public service employees
• Cadets
• Junior Canadian Rangers
• Family members, caregivers and supporters

Besides the RE Program, the SMSRC offers the following programs and services:

• 24/7 Supportive Counselling
• Response and Support Coordination
• Peer Support
• Community Consultations
• An Independent Legal Assistance (ILA) Program
• Outreach (virtual or in-person information sessions about the SMSRC)
• Military Liaison

For more detail, please visit the Sexual Misconduct Support and Resource Centre webpage.

The Final Report on the RE Program

RE Program staff have begun working on the final report for the RE program. The report will be finalized after the end of the program and published on Canada.ca where it will be accessible by the public in English and French. The goal of the final report will be to transparently tell the story of the RE program, including successes, challenges, and share information that can support the Defence Team in addressing sexual misconduct.

More details about the final report will be shared as the development and writing progresses. In addition to being posted publicly on Canada.ca, when the report is published, it will be shared with class members in an email update to everyone who has chosen to continue receiving communication from the program.

How to Reach Out 

If you have any questions or concerns, please reach out to RE-DR@forces.gc.ca or by phone at 1-833-998-2048.

You can also reach out through the SMSRC 24/7 line at 1-844-750-1648 to talk with a trained counsellor.

For updates on your claim, contact the CAF-DND Sexual Misconduct Class Action Settlement Claims Administrator at info@caf-dndsexualmisconductclassaction.ca or by telephone at 1-888-626-2611.

Thank you for your continued patience, and commitment to this important initiative. Together, we are building a stronger, more inclusive community for all.

Warm regards,

Restorative Engagement Program Team