Sexual Misconduct Support and Resource Centre Restorative Engagement Program Updates—Spring 2025

Progress to Date

The RE Program is making progress in supporting class members who have chosen to participate. A total of 359 engagement sessions have been completed so far with many more to come.

Class Members

• 175 are waiting to be assigned to a restorative practitioner to begin participating
• 1,620 have participated/are currently participating
• 1,200 chose not to participate
• 2,946 were contacted and haven’t decided to participate yet

Defence Representatives

• 259 have participated/are currently participating
• 72% are CAF members
• 28% are DND public service employees

Restorative Voices—Experiences of Class Members

Through the RE Program, class members share personal experiences that offer valuable insights. Below are two testimonials from class members sharing their truths and their dedication in fostering dialogue and promoting cultural transformation:

“When I first entered the Restorative Engagement process with (restorative practitioners), I was a bit hesitant. I didn’t really know what to expect, because for me, past experiences in the Canadian Armed Forces caused me to feel like my story would be shunned rather than heard. In the past, I was treated like a criminal for crimes committed against me. To be honest I am glad that I did not back out of the process and that I continued forward with the assistance of (restorative practitioners) and the restorative engagement process.

Because I didn’t back out, I was able to find my voice once again, tell my story, and make suggestions regarding cultural change in the Armed Forces. The process resulted in the creation of my autobiographical poetry and art book. If asked whether it is worth the time and effort to enter the Restorative Engagement process, I would say yes, it’s worth the risk in order to be heard, and have a chance to cause understanding.”

“People need to know that this experience was super positive. It’s been fantastic. I would not have it any other way. We were a perfect a match and I would not have traded the assigned restorative practitioner and Defence representative. I can’t say enough about the program, the thought that was put into every step, the care that was given at every turn. I was listened to and not judged. The pace was my own. I would encourage everyone to do it, if not for themselves, to be a part of institutional change. I would recommend it to everyone that they take part in this program. My comfort level with both the restorative practitioner and Defence representative was very high and they both made the process very doable and seamless. I cannot thank you enough.”

Restorative Voices – Experiences of Defence Representatives

Defence representatives have been an important part of the RE Program, bringing empathy and commitment to their roles. Below are testimonials that were shared with us by Defence representatives on how their participation has led to personal growth, deeper understanding, and valuable skills. These experiences underscore the profound impact the program has had, not only on class members but also on DRs:

“Being part of the Restorative Engagement Program was one of the best and most memorable experiences of my nearly eight-year military career. I had the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of class members and actively participate in transforming such a large organization. This program taught me skills that will benefit not only my military career but also help me succeed in every aspect of my personal life.”

“The biggest impact of being in cohort for me was the time, space, and team that allowed me to learn, understand, and reflect on the topics surrounding sexual misconduct and the shared testimonies/experiences of class members. In no other aspect of my military career has there been so much emphasis put on taking the time for real reflection, understanding, and growth. The pace of our lives is so fast that we often don’t get the time to think through issues, responses, and consider the multitude of factors and perspectives on an issue or decision. This has been an invaluable experience, and I hope to bring the tools gained into every facet of the remainder of my career and life.”

Invitation to Participate

If you want to participate in the RE Program, please let us know by filling out the intake form, emailing RE-DR@forces.gc.ca or by calling 1-844-750-1648 before September 30, 2025, so that we may assign you to a restorative practitioner. The program is expected to conclude March 2026.

If you have already completed an intake form, you do not need to fill out another one. The program will reach out to you when it is your turn to participate.

Independent Evaluation of the RE Program

The Assistant Deputy Minister Review Services (ADM(RS)) within Department of National Defence is conducting an independent evaluation of the RE Program and would greatly appreciate your participation. ADM(RS) provides independent, objective and timely reviews of Defence policies, programs, operations and activities in order to promote improvements. As a class member, your feedback on the RE Program is invaluable in helping us improve the Program and better serve you and the DND/CAF community. This evaluation is entirely independent from the RE Program.

We would like to invite you to participate in a questionnaire and, if you wish, an interview with the evaluation team. The survey will be launched in April 2025 and the interviews will take place in April and May 2025.

If you are interested in participating and/or if you have any questions, please contact the Samar El-Kaseih, Evaluation Advisor, ADM (Review Services) at samar.el-kaseih@forces.gc.ca by April 9, 2025. Please use “Interested in the RE Program Evaluation” in the subject line of the e-mail you send them.

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

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