The Sexual Violence Resource Centre is available to anyone seeking help
If you’ve been impacted by sexual violence, know that you are not alone. The doors to UM’s Sexual Violence Resource Centre (SVRC) are open to all faculty, staff and students who need their help. It’s a place where survivors, or people supporting survivors, can find a safe space.
Incidents do not need to be university-related, as the SVRC provides support to any individuals experiencing sexual violence-related issues, whether it be at home, with a partner, or at a workplace.
“We’re here to support all members of the campus community in whatever way makes sense for them, and however it’s safe for them,” says Bre Woligroski, coordinator for the SVRC. “Sexual violence includes any form of non-consensual touching, intimate partner violence, as well as harassment and discrimination based on a person’s gender, sexuality or body. Services are confidential, and provided in a trauma-informed and survivor-centered manner.”
The SVRC understands that experiences with sexual violence and the appropriate method of navigating these events will vary between individuals. They can help with assessing needs, clarifying options, identifying next steps, and coordinating a plan to support you. They have also provided practical assistance like helping people find alternate living arrangements, find employment, request course accommodation and address food security.
The office at 537 UMSU University Centre (Fort Garry campus) is open Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Please call or email the office in advance to make an appointment: 204-474-6562 or svrc@umanitoba.ca.
Drop-in appointments are now available at the SVRC from 9 – 10 a.m. on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays.
Accessing the SVRC is always completely confidential. While staff can assist with related reporting processes, individuals seeking help will not be pressured to take any specific course of action. Individuals who seek help from SVRC are in control of the process and the centre’s role is to support them through that process.
More information on the Sexual Violence Research Centre and related resources can be found on their website.