List of consultations
Open consultations
Planned consultations
Upcoming consultations will focus on:
- the 24/7 confidential support line
- the Response and Support Coordination (RSC) program
We are gathering feedback to inform and enhance the services that are available to Defence community members affected (directly or indirectly) by sexual misconduct.
If you are interested in participating in upcoming consultations, please fill out an Expression of Interest Form.
Previous consultations
The Informal Peer Support Group and Other Peer Support Services
Consultation period: April 29 to June 6, 2024
Purpose of the consultation
To inform the development and delivery of the Informal Peer Support Group service and gather insights on how the Peer Support Program can best support participants, through either existing or new services. This program aims to bring people together with shared experiences, create meaningful connections and contribute to participants overall wellbeing.
Summary of the feedback
The SMSRC gained valuable insights into the barriers, expectations and needs of the Defence community when accessing peer support services.
Participants highlighted the need for:
- outreach and services that are tailored to the unique needs of different groups
- flexible sessions that offer a supportive and welcoming environment
- lessons and ideas from both military and civilian peer support programs
- options that are easy to access and that respect different needs and preferences
- opportunities to connect with others, both through organized activities and informal gatherings
Additionally, participants discussed the importance of effective facilitation, the benefits of guest speakers, and the value of Mental Health Professionals’ participation during sessions.
Participants’ insights inform the development, delivery, and refinement of new and existing Peer Support services, with the aim of making them inclusive and responsive to the diverse needs of the community.
Community Consultations’ Terms of Reference (ToR) document
Consultation period: April 29 to June 6, 2024
Purpose of the consultation
To ensure that the Terms of Reference (ToR) for the Community Consultations are easy to understand, inclusive and responsive to the needs of consultation participants.
Summary of the feedback Summary of the feedback Summary of the feedback Summary of the feedback
By reviewing this document together, the SMSRC gained valuable insights on community members’ preferences for what they would like to see in the ToR, which outline the purpose, goals, and approach for the consultations.
Participants emphasized that it should:
- clearly explain what is expected from participants in consultations
- outline the roles and responsibilities of SMSRC staff
- include and highlight strong measures to protect privacy and confidentiality
- describe the different ways people can take part
- align with best practices and use consistent language that is familiar to the Defence community
These insights will help shape how the SMSRC plans and carries out future consultations. They will also guide how the ToR document is structured to ensure it reflects the needs of the community and promotes inclusive and responsive engagement.
How the SMSRC should consult with the wider Defence community
Consultation period: October 10 to November 2, 2023
Purpose of the consultation
To develop the process for consulting the community, the terms of reference for consultations, and the overall model for SMSRC engagement activities, including the development of an Engagement Framework.
Summary of the feedback
Participants highlighted the need for:
- increased outreach and clear communication
- regular engagement related to policy changes
- trauma-informed practices, and support and safety considerations
- transparent guidelines on roles and responsibilities
These valuable insights will guide the SMSRC’s current and future engagements, ensuring they are responsive, inclusive, and meet the needs of the community.
Learn more in the What We Heard Report: How the SMSRC should consult with the wider Defence community.
Independent Legal Assistance (ILA) Program
Consultation period: October 10 to November 2, 2023
Purpose of the consultation
To inform the development of the Independent Legal Assistance (ILA) program, designed to provide legal information, advice, and representation for people who have experienced sexual misconduct in a DND/CAF context. This program aims to ensure the delivery of client-centered and trauma-informed legal support that meets the diverse needs of the Defence community.
Summary of the feedback
Participants emphasized the importance of increasing outreach and program awareness within the Defence community and consulting external organizations to inform the program’s design.
Key preferences included:
- flexible options for accessing legal assistance
- expertise in both the military and civilian criminal justice systems
- an understanding of military culture
Additionally, participants highlighted the need for a trauma-informed approach and legal support that empowers clients by helping them make informed decisions, and that services are available across Canada.
These insights are informing the ongoing development of the ILA program, ensuring it is inclusive, responsive, and aligned with best practices for legal support in cases of sexual misconduct in a DND/CAF context.
To learn more, read the Independent Legal Assistance (ILA) Program Model.