BCIT takes all incidents of sexual violence and misconduct seriously. We understand that sexual violence and misconduct can have serious negative impacts on an individual’s physical, mental, emotional and spiritual health and wellness. We encourage the efforts of individuals to seek the support and assistance that they are most comfortable with.
The Policy and procedure apply if the sexual violence or misconduct occurred on BCIT property or at BCIT sanctioned activities and events in person or online, including but not limited to practicums, filed schools, co-ops, conferences and the conduct was committed by someone acting in their BCIT capacity (e.g. an employee or student for example).
Even when the sexual violence or conduct was not related to BCIT activity or committed by a BCIT community member, BCIT can still provide support and/or accommodation for staff and students.
Resources:
Disclosure means telling someone of your experience of sexual violence or misconduct. It does not automatically mean you want to take further action or file a complaint.
Making a complaint of Sexual Violence or Misconduct means asking that the matter be investigated by BCIT.
It is up to the person who has experienced sexual violence or misconduct to decide if, when, or how they want to disclose the incident and/or make a complaint for investigation.
BCIT is committed to working with individuals who have experienced sexual violence and misconduct to ensure they are provided with the support and resources that they need to make an informed choice about their options.
Anyone can disclose to a member of the Sexual Violence and Misconduct Response Team (SVMRT).
Students can disclose to any BCIT employee.
Employees can disclose to their supervisor, manager, and/or a member of Human Resources.
When a BCIT employee witnesses or receives a disclosure about sexual violence or misconduct involving another BCIT community member they must Inform BCIT Safety, Security and Emergency Management (SSEM) or SVMRT.
You will be provided with information about available supportive resources and accommodation both at BCIT and within the broader community.
You will be provided with information about how to make a formal complaint for investigation should you choose to do so.
SSEM/SVMRT can provide you with information about which policies you have the option to make a complaint under depending if the person accused is:
It is entirely your choice to report the matter to the Police, whether or not you have made a complaint with BCIT.
SSEM can assist with this process if requested.
Community services such as VictimLink BC can also assist with making a third party report to the police.
You can contact your local police services yourself:
BCIT recognizes the sensitivity of information relating to incidents of Sexual Violence and Misconduct and will make every reasonable effort to protect personal information and maintain confidentiality.
BCIT will ensure that access to information is only on a need-to-know basis. This may involve disclosing personal information internally and/or with police to ensure the safety and security of the BCIT Community, and to prevent significant risks of injury or harm to any person. See Sexual Violence and Misconduct Policy 7103 for more information about confidentiality.
Your immigration status will not be negatively impacted because you have reported sexual violence or misconduct.