Review and Revision of Sexual Violence Policy and Procedures

Current Policy
External Review of Current Policy 
Community Engagement: How To Get Involved 
Timelines and Next Steps

Current Policy 

The current Sexual Violence Policy (the Policy) was established in 2018 and last revised in 2023.  The Policy is intended to set out the principles that apply when allegations of Sexual Violence are brought forward in the University community. The procedures which support this Policy are determined by the respondent group: 

External Review of Current Policy 

In the time since the University’s current Sexual Violence Policy and Procedures were first approved, our understanding how to effectively respond to and support those affected by sexual and gender-based violence has evolved. The shifting landscape calls for a refreshed approach to ensure our policies and procedures remain aligned with the latest research, standards, and community expectations. 

Recognizing the need for an in-depth review of the current Policy, in 2023 the University engaged Possibility Seeds to conduct an external review of the Policy.  A summary of key recommendations stemming from the external review, include: 

  1. Embedding Inclusive Practices, Survivor-Centered, and Trauma-Informed Approaches: Embed practices that prioritize survivor-centered care while ensuring trauma-informed and equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) principles guide every aspect of the policy. 
  2. Improved Language and Readability: Update language throughout the documents to ensure clarity and accessibility for all members of the university community. 
  3. Enhancing Clarity with Defined Terms: Add clear and comprehensive definitions to help create a shared understanding of complex concepts and terminology. 
  4. Clarifying Expectations: Clarify expectations related to resolution processes, accountability outcomes, and safety measures to promote transparency. 
  5. Streamlining Resolution Processes: Refine and simplify resolution processes to prioritize timeliness and efficiency, ensuring fair and effective outcomes. 
  6. Simplifying Support with Accessible Resources and Pathways: Simplify and streamline information about support and resources available to both survivors and respondents to enhance access and usability. 
  7. Articulate a shared Commitment: Share the university’s commitment to preventing, addressing, and healing from sexual and gender-based violence.  
  8. Linking Policy to Institutional Priorities: Strengthen connections between governance practices and priorities such as education, training, awareness, support, and addressing misconduct. 
  9. Ensuring Legislative Alignment: Ensure the policy reflects the most current compliance requirements related to relevant legislation.

View the full Possibility Seeds Assessment & Review of the University of Guelph’s Sexual Violence Policy. 

Community Engagement

 

As part of the ongoing review of the University’s Sexual Violence Policy, students, staff, faculty, and community partners were invited to share their perspectives through a range of engagement opportunities. These included in-person and virtual consultation sessions, as well as an anonymous online submission tool. The feedback received offered valuable insight into areas of strength, opportunities for improvement, and ways the University might continue to foster a safer, more respectful campus environment. 

What We Heard: Emerging Themes 

Throughout the consultation process, five themes emerged:  

  1. Accessibility, Clarity, and Education: 
    Community members shared that the current policy and procedures can be difficult to navigate—particularly during high-stress situations. Suggestions included simplifying policy language, enhancing online access, and incorporating visual tools such as flowcharts and infographics. There was also strong interest in increasing education and outreach through multiple platforms and tailored approaches for different audiences. 

  2. Survivor-Centred and Trauma-Informed Approach: 
    Participants expressed the need for flexible, compassionate processes that prioritize confidentiality and minimize re-traumatization. Feedback emphasized the importance of approaches that are sensitive to the emotional, psychological, and relational impacts of trauma. 

  3. Equity, Inclusion, and Intersectionality: 
    Feedback highlighted the importance of ensuring policies, procedures, and supports are inclusive and responsive to the diverse identities and lived experiences within the campus community. Community members called for affirming language, culturally relevant support, and equitable access to resources across all locations. 

  4. Reporting, Roles, and Responsibilities: 
    Participants noted challenges in navigating the current reporting system and understanding who is responsible for providing support or responding to disclosures. Requests were made for clearer guidance, simplified processes, more transparent reporting pathways, and targeted training to strengthen accountability and consistency across the University. 

  5. Infrastructure, Resources, and Capacity: 
    Concerns were raised regarding limited access to timely, trauma-informed support due to wait times, and unclear service pathways. Suggestions included expanding staffing, creating dedicated support roles, and enhancing simplified processes related to accommodation for students, staff, and faculty. 

 

The above community insights, together with recommendations from the external review conducted by Possibility Seeds, are helping to shape the development of a revised policy and implementation plan. The goal is to create a framework that reflects the values of the University of Guelph community; one that is clear, inclusive, trauma-informed, and responsive.  

Additionally, and informed by community feedback, work is underway to revise the related procedures, enhance education and training initiatives, expand support services, and develop a campus-wide implementation strategy.  

As the Policy review and revisions move forward, updates will be shared on this page, including timelines, key milestones, and opportunities for involvement. For more information or to get involved, please contact us at: policyfeedback@uoguelph.ca.