Get Support
U of T community members affected by sexual violence can get support from the SVPS Centre, as well as other tri-campus offices and community organizations. If you wish to access care, or need assistance in understanding support options, please request an appointment. We are here for you.
What to do if you have experienced sexual violence
Sexual violence can impact you in ways that are hard to anticipate and plan for. It is broad and includes a range of behaviours, such as sexual assault, stalking, indecent exposure, voyeurism, sexual exploitation, and others.
While it is common to blame yourself, sexual violence is not your fault. You deserve care and compassion.
Different experiences may suggest different courses of action. We encourage you to explore our tips for responding to such experiences. You can also contact the Centre for assistance in navigating the supports and services available to you.
Finding emergency help
If you or someone else is in immediate danger, please call 9-1-1. If you or someone else is feeling lost, hopeless, or thinking about suicide, please call 9-8-8 or visit 988.ca for more information. Alternatively, U of T Campus Safety (across the tri-campus) is available to respond to urgent inquiries 24/7 at 416-978-2222.
Learn the difference between disclosing and reporting. Explore your options and choose what feels safest and most supportive for you.
Understand your legal rights and access information about reporting processes, protective orders, and referrals to legal support services.
Access free, confidential crisis support at any time. These phone lines are available 24/7 for immediate help and guidance.
Find trauma-informed counselling and mental health resources for those impacted by sexual violence, tailored to your unique needs.
Support is available on all three U of T campuses. Connect with local contacts for guidance and assistance on various aspects of life at the University.
Reach out to our team for information and confidential, trauma-informed support, or to schedule a consultation by phone, email, or video.
REES (Respect. Educate. Empower Survivors.) is a trauma-informed and fully encrypted documentation platform where users can navigate support at their own pace and make choices about how information is shared more broadly. It allows users to record as little or as much as they would like, while also providing anonymous chat and disclosure options. Launched with the support of the University of Toronto Student Union, this pilot project reflects our commitment to creating a campus where all members of the University community can study, work, and live free from sexual violence.
Finding Community at U of T
Join us on Wednesdays (3 – 4:30 p.m.) at B139 Gerstein Library to find a likeminded community of students, and participate in activities as you choose. We have regular discussion topics, and a caring team of fellow students who are there to listen and support.
Healing Hearts is a support group for people of all genders who have had an experience of sexual violence or harassment. Join us to talk consent and pleasure, healthy boundaries, intimacy after trauma, and more at these free monthly drop-in meetings.
Restorative Reading is all about building-up a community of readers who encourage each other to read when they can as a way to decompress and learn together. Our book club offers an excellent opportunity to attend low-barrier discussions and meet other community members.
Upcoming Events
Explore the Policy on Sexual Violence & Harassment
Get help in understanding the U of T’s Policy on Sexual Violence and Sexual Harassment as it relates to students impacted by or accused of sexual violence.