- Students
Navigating U of T’s Policy on Sexual Violence and Sexual Harassment:
Students
Student who experienced Sexual Violence
Learn about supports for students who have experienced sexual violence, reporting an incidence of Sexual Violence at U of T, and how U of T addresses a Report about sexual violence based on the Respondent (the person being reported against).
Student accused of Sexual Violence
Learn about supports for people who have been reported against (otherwise known as a Respondent), and U of T’s Sexual Violence policies and procedures.
COMING SOON
Key terms
These key terms are used throughout this website and within U of T’s Policy on Sexual Violence and Sexual Harassment.
When this guide refers to the “Policy” and “sexual violence policy,” it is referring to the Policy on Sexual Violence & Sexual Harassment.
Sexual Violence
Sexual Violence within U of T’s Policy on Sexual Violence and Sexual Harassment is defined as:
‘Any sexual act or act targeting a person’s sexuality, gender identity or gender expression, whether the act is physical or psychological in nature, that is committed, threatened or attempted against a person without the person’s consent, and includes Sexual Assault, Sexual Harassment, stalking, indecent exposure, voyeurism, gender-based harassment or violence, cyber sexual violence, and sexual exploitation.’
Complainant
A Member of the University Community who has Disclosed or Reported an Incident of Sexual Violence that they experienced.
Respondent
Someone against whom an allegation of Sexual Violence has been made.
Members of the University Community
Includes students, faculty, librarians, post-doctoral fellows, and all employees of the University of Toronto.
Faculty includes clinical, adjunct, status-only, retired, visiting faculty, contractors, and members of the Governing Council of the University.
Disclosure
The sharing of information by an individual with a member of the University community regarding an incident of Sexual Violence experienced by that individual.
Reporting
The sharing of information by an individual with the Centre or Campus Safety regarding an Incident of Sexual Violence experienced by that individual, with the intention of initiating one of the processes set out in the sexual violence policy, which could result in disciplinary action being taken against the Member of the University Community alleged to have committed Sexual Violence. A Report from a Complainant containing information regarding an Incident of Sexual Violence initiates the Reporting process.
What is the Policy?
The University of Toronto’s Policy on Sexual Violence and Sexual Harassment came into effect on January 1, 2017, and is reviewed every three years. The Policy outlines the steps that the University will take to address Incidents of Sexual Violence, including the supports available to the people involved. It also articulates the education, resources, and accommodations that can be provided to someone who has been affected by Sexual Violence.
Support for members of the U of T community who have been affected by sexual violence
SVPS Centre
Email: svpscentre@utoronto.ca
Phone: 416-978-2266
(All locations – leave a voicemail and we will call you back)
The Sexual Violence Prevention and Support Centre (SVPS Centre) is here to help. We support students, staff and faculty with confidential, non-judgmental, client-centered services.
We accept Disclosures and/or Reports from Complainants, make referrals to counselling and other resources, and help everyone at the University understand the sexual violence policy.