Board approves updates to Sexualized Violence and Prevention Response Policy

During the latter half of 2020, the University of Victoria engaged community stakeholders to collect feedback on its Sexualized Violence Prevention and Response Policy. The consultations were part of a three-year review of the policy, which was introduced in 2017.

The consultation period included an online community engagement survey that resulted in over 200 responses, and 30 conversation cafes and meetings with key stakeholders, including employee and student groups.

All of the input was reviewed and considered as part of the policy revisions. University’s Board of Governors approved the updated policy on Jan. 26..

The revised policy updated the definition of survivor-centered, to include dignity and respect for the survivor’s rights, interests and agency.

The update also added the opportunity for the parties to engage in voluntary resolution processes and clarified a support person’s role as providing cultural, emotional and/or spiritual support. The updated policy is online at bit.ly/svp-21.

In addition to the Sexualized Violence Prevention and Response Policy, the university’s Discrimination and Harassment and Human Rights, Equity and Fairness policies are also currently under review. More information on the review process is available at bit.ly/policy-21.

A detailed outline of the review process for the Sexualized Violence Prevention and Response Policy is available at bit.ly/svpr-21.