Prevention and Response Services
What is Sexual Violence?
Sexual violence is a broad term that describes any violence, physical or psychological, carried out through sexual means or by targeting sexuality. This takes many forms and may include sexual assault, sexual harassment, stalking, indecent exposure, voyeurism, sexual exploitation and other instances when someone's actions cross the line. It can happen to anyone… anywhere… and we are here to support you.
All Sexual Violence Prevention services continue to be available remotely during COVID-19. Consent is not cancelled. Disclosing sexual violence is important even if it means letting someone know you “broke a COVID guideline”.
Frequently Asked Questions related to COVID-19
What sexual violence support services are available?
The Sexual Violence Prevention Coordinator is available to receive disclosures, to provide supports and referrals, and to help advocate for accommodations. She is available by email, phone, and video conferencing. To connect with her, email consent@trentu.ca.
What about community supports for sexual violence?
Every agency will have their own response to this situation. Please check up on individual agency’s availability through their websites and social media. Many agencies are making use of phone and video options for continued support.
Is the Kawartha Sexual Assault Centre (KSAC) still open?
KSAC is providing online support in group and individual form. The 24/7 crisis line remains available and extended weekend webchat hours are available.
The 24/7 crisis line is: 1-866-298-7778
24/7 Texting support: 705-710-5234
Learn more on the KSAC website.
What about the Durham Rape Crisis Centre?
Durham Rape Crisis Centre (DRCC) has a Counsellor available to support Durham students who have experienced sexual violence, Tanya Montebello is available by email at tanya@drcc.ca.
24/7 Crisis/Immediate Support and Assistance: 905-668-9200
Learn more on the DRCC website.
What if I want to report sexual violence to the University?
Security remains able to accept reports and complaints, support you with referrals, and can support you with safety planning. Please call the office and leave a message. Someone will get back to you as soon as possible. The phone number is 705-748-1328.
How do I keep myself safe during social distancing? I feel isolated.
We are going to get through this as a community. Safety is the number one priority. Please practice your self-care as best you can, and stay connected to people who are safe and trustworthy through whatever virtual means you have available. If you would like to discuss safety planning, please email consent@trentu.ca. Also, as in most situations where you may have limited options, it can be a good idea to document the situation. Please only document unsafe situations if you can keep your documentation private and it doesn’t increase your danger. As always, if you are unsafe, at any time you can call 911 for help.
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What about safe sex during COVID-19?
The Public Health Agency of Canada has issued guidelines for prevention of COVID-19. Read their guidelines in their collaboration with Trojan condoms. Safe sex also means consensual sex, so whether you are having phone sex or sex with masks with your partner in your social bubble, make sure both parties can and do consent.
Trent Welcomes Results of Student Voices on Sexual Violence Survey
Trent University welcomes the release of more detailed results tables from the 2018 provincial Student Voices on Sexual Violence survey, and the insights it provides about this important issue in our society.
Read the latest Survey Results.