Supporting a student who discloses interpersonal violence

If a student discloses that they have experienced interpersonal violence (such as sexual violence, sexual harassment, dating violence, relationship violence, or stalking) it is important to check if the student currently feels safe, provide non-judgmental support, and provide referrals to confidential resources that are available. 

Confidential resources on campus

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Responding to Disclosures for Non-mandated Reporters

This video includes a brief overview of Safe Office services and the “Three C’s: Care, Connect, Check-in” for responding to disclosures of interpersonal violence for non-mandated reporters.

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Trauma-informed practices in the Virtual Space

This video includes tips on how Faculty and Staff can make the virtual space they are hosting more trauma-informed.

Unsure if you are a mandated reporter?

Visit this Title IX web page to view the list or contact the Title IX office for more policy information.

Resources for additional information

Below are national resources on trauma-informed practices when working with students.

Trauma-Informed Practices for Postsecondary Education: A Guide

The National Center for Trauma-Informed Care (NCTIC)


Advocating for healthy sexual conduct in the classroom

Below are two options for text you can include in your syllabus to provide information about interpersonal violence/sexual misconduct support on campus. Feel free to directly copy/paste: 

Example Syllabus Language

OPTION 1:

The University Safe Office provides confidential support for sexual assault, interpersonal violence and any other form of sexual misconduct or harassment. They also can provide information on reporting options and assistance with academic accommodation requests. Their 24-hour Help line is 336-758-5285. For non-urgent concerns they can be reached at safe@wfu.edu. You may find information about the Safe Office online at safeoffice.wfu.edu.”

OPTION 2:

Wake Forest is committed to fostering a safe, productive learning environment. University policies prohibit gender discrimination, sexual assault, sexual harassment, dating violence, and stalking.  

We understand that sexual harassment and misconduct can undermine students’ academic success. We encourage students who have experienced some form of sexual harassment or misconduct to talk to someone about their experience, so they can get the support they need. 

The University Safe Office provides confidential support for sexual assault, interpersonal violence and any other form of sexual harassment or misconduct. They can provide assistance with academic accommodation requests, space to discuss options if you are considering making a report, counseling, and more.  Their 24-hour crisis line is 336-758-5285. You may find information about the Safe Office online at safeoffice.wfu.edu

Alleged sexual harassment or misconduct can be reported to the Title IX Office (a non-confidential resource) by emailing titleixcoordinator@wfu.edu or calling 336-758-7258. The Student Sexual Harassment and Sexual Misconduct Policy may be reviewed by visiting the Title IX website.

Alleged criminal conduct may also be reported to law enforcement by calling University Police at 336-758-5911 or by submitting a silent witness report at https://police.wfu.edu/forms/silent-witness-form/.”


Resources for yourself

Below are places where you can receive support for yourself. 

Family Services

Employee Assistance Program 

RAINN

Resource guide for coping with secondary trauma


CREDIT

Some of the above information is adapted from content on Villanova‘s resource page.