What Support and Disclosure Options are Available for Survivors of Sexual Violence at Okanagan College? 

Okanagan College is committed to fostering safer campuses by empowering survivors of sexual and gender-based violence through compassionate support, ongoing education and prevention initiatives. This article outlines the support services available to students who have experienced sexual violence and provides guidance on how to access these resources, including options for disclosure and reporting to help you make informed decisions about your next steps. 

Available Support Services

On-Campus Support: 

Coordinated Support Services (CSS):

• CSS helps students navigate complex challenges that may impact their academic success or well-being. If you’ve experienced sexual violence, CSS can work with you to:
• Explore support and reporting options
• Access academic accommodations (e.g., assignment extensions, exam rescheduling)
• Connect with campus and community resources
• Develop safety plans
• Understand and navigate college policies
• Contact CSS at occares@okanagan.bc.ca or visit the Student Services Office (S111 at the Kelowna campus) to speak with someone in person.

OC Counselling Services:

• OC offers free, confidential one-on-one counselling with clinical counsellors who provide a safe space to process your experience and work collaboratively with you to strengthen your ability to cope.
• To request an appointment, visit the OC Counselling Services webpage.

OC Security:

• Security can be contacted in urgent or emergency situations. If you feel unsafe on campus, call 911 or Campus Security at:
• Kelowna campus: 250-317-2435
• Penticton campus: 250-486-3879
• Salmon Arm campus:  250-317-2435 (no on-site security)
• Vernon campus: 250-307-4574
• Campus Security also offers a Safe Walk program should you wish for security to escort you to your vehicle or another location on campus. Visit the Campus Security webpage for more information on this resource and to download the OC Safe app. 

Off-Campus supports:

• For those who prefer external assistance, Okanagan College provides a comprehensive list of community-based resources offering specialized support. This list is available on the Sexual Violence Support page. 
   

Disclosure and Reporting Options

Anonymous disclosure form:

• This form lets you share as much or as little as you choose without identifying yourself. While we can’t respond directly, your disclosure helps us track concerns and improve supports.
• Submit an Anonymous Disclosure Form

Survivor support form:

• Use this form if you’d like CSS to follow up with you confidentially to offer support and help you consider next steps, including:
• Connecting with services
• Exploring reporting options
• Accessing academic concessions
• Initiating a campus investigation or filing an RCMP report 
• Submit a Survivor Support Form

Disclose to campus supports:

• If you prefer not to use a form, need assistance completing one or are unsure which form to use, you can reach out directly to the CSS team.
• We respect, support, and empower your right to disclose your experience to any safe person you choose such as family, friends, on-campus supports such as OC Counselling Services, or resources in the community. We are here to provide the guidance you need and help you explore all available options. You never have to make these decisions alone.
• Email us at occares@okanagan.bc.ca with any questions or to schedule a confidential meeting. Or connect with Counselling Services at counselling@okanagan.bc.ca. 

FAQ

Q1: Do I have to report what happened in order to get support? 
A1: No. You do not need to make a formal report to access support. Coordinated Support Services and Counselling Services are available to help you explore your options and create a support plan based on what feels right for you.

Q2: What’s the difference between the Anonymous Disclosure Form and the Survivor Support Form?
A2: The Anonymous Disclosure Form lets you share your experience without revealing your identity. The Survivor Support Form is a confidential way to connect with support staff who can follow up with you directly to offer personalized support and explore next steps. 
 
Q3: Who will see the information I share?
A3: Information is kept confidential and only shared with staff who need to know in order to provide support, ensure safety or meet legal responsibilities. Your privacy is respected at every stage.

Q5: Can I get support even if the incident happened off-campus or before I started at OC?
A5: Yes. It doesn’t matter when or where the incident occurred — if it’s affecting you now, you are eligible for support. 

Resources and links

• Anonymous Disclosure Form
• Survivor Support Form
• Sexual Violence Support Webpage
• Sexual Violence and Misconduct Policy
• Coordinated Support Services Webpage 
   

Conclusion and next steps

You are not alone, support is available whenever you feel ready. At Okanagan College, we recognize that you are the expert of your own experience. Whether you choose to share your story, explore your options or simply ask questions, the next steps are entirely your choice. We are committed to providing respectful, student-led support that honours your decisions and your pace.