Disclosure vs. report: Understanding the difference
The university’s Student Sexual Violence Policy and Procedures distinguishes between a disclosure and a report of sexual violence.
The decision to disclose or report an incident of sexual violence can be difficult. The Human Rights office can help you understand what your options are, and how each option works.
Disclosure: Telling the Human Rights office about an incident of sexual violence
- Disclosure is simply sharing your experience of sexual violence. A disclosure is confidential and will not launch any formal action on the part of the university. Decisions surrounding next steps remain entirely with the individual making the disclosure.
- As a first step, you are encouraged to disclose to the Human Rights Office’s Gender-Based Violence Specialist. However, a disclosure can be made to any trusted friend or colleague.
- When you disclose to the Human Rights office, we will make support services available to you, and we can discuss whether counselling, medical services, safety planning, immediate measures, and academic accommodations may be appropriate. You do not have to make a report to access these services.
- A disclosure does not lead to a report unless you want it to.
Report: Registering a formal complaint with the Human Rights office for action
- A report provides details of what happened, when and where it happened, and who was involved, in order for the university to take some form of action.
- Alternative dispute-resolution options are available to individuals who report an incident of student sexual violence but do not want an investigation.
- To initiate an investigation, which may trigger a disciplinary response, a report must be made to the Human Rights office.
- Your safety and well-being are considered at each step of the investigation process; the Human Rights office will not hesitate to impose measures to ensure the protection of you and other university community members during the course of an investigation.
Book a confidential meeting with the Human Rights office for more information.
