Sexual Misconduct Support and Resource Centre Hosted Information Sessions

Above images courtesy of the Canadian Government. 

In keeping with the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) continued desire to support victims of sexual misconduct, the Sexual Misconduct Support and Resource Centre (SMSRC) hosted information sessions in August.

The sessions are intended for those in the “wider Defence community” who are affected by sexual misconduct and for those hoping to learn more about the SMSRC and what it does. The sessions also provided attendees an opportunity to ask questions anonymously.

“We invite you to consult the list of information sessions from the SMSRC and share it broadly with your networks. Additional information sessions on the Military Sexual Trauma Peer Support program and the expansion of support services to Cadets, Junior Canadian Rangers, and family members, aged 16 and older, will be offered later this fall,” stated the press release.

Sessions on a variety of topics

The sessions began on August 1 and started by covering the Independent Legal Assistance Program. This program provides financial compensation to those who have taken on legal costs because of their experiences with sexual misconduct in the military.

Additional sessions were scheduled throughout August and featured in French and English.

The sessions also touched on the SMSRC National Call-Out, which asks for feedback from the Department of National Defence and the CAF community. The goal is that through these consultations, the SMSRC can learn if their programs, services and initiatives continue to support the community.

Help Address Sexual Misconduct

The Centre also seeks Defence Team members to join their Restorative Engagement (RE) program.

“The Sexual Misconduct Support and Resource Centre (SMSRC) Restorative Engagement (RE) program provides flexible options for members of the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF)-Department of National Defence (DND) Sexual Misconduct Class Action Settlement to share aspects of their experience, impacts and/or insights as they relate to sexual misconduct in the CAF and DND,” stated the Government of Canada website.

The RE program was mandated through the Canadian Armed Forces-Department of National Defence Sexual Misconduct Class Action Final Settlement. The program was designed and developed by the SMSRC.

About the SMSRC

SMSRC offers support and services to currently serving and former Canadian Armed Forces members, National Defence public service employees, Cadets and Junior Canadian Rangers affected by sexual misconduct and their families, aged 16 and older. Plus, it offers guidance and support for leaders and management on addressing sexual misconduct.

To learn more about the SMSRC, click here.  For any questions or comments, contact the Communications and Marketing team by email here.

Additionally, members can reach out to SMSRC counsellors at 1-844-750-1648. During weekdays, they can also reply to email at here.

For more information regarding the Restorative Engagement program visit here.