Comprehensive, Supportive Safety Planning Now Offered by SVPS Centre   

A stone building at the downtown UofT campus, pink flowers bloom out front.

Safety planning services for sexual violence survivors have now moved from the Community Safety Office (CSO) to the Sexual Violence Prevention and Support Centre (SVPS Centre). This move aligns with the office’s goal of providing confidential, non-judgmental, client-centred services that reduce the number of times a survivor needs to tell their stories to staff at the University.   

The CSO will continue to support safety planning for survivors of other forms of violence and will collaborate with the SVPS Centre on complex or high-risk cases. Community members with safety concerns are welcome to contact either service for support, and the offices will work with the client to find the best support pathway for their needs.   

What is a Safety Plan? 

A safety plan is unique to each individual and set of circumstances. It reflects the nature of the risk, including information about the person(s) who may cause harm, the personal values and support systems of the client, and other strategies, resources, and tools. Safety planning is a collaborative process that is led by the survivor and supported by a Coordinator at the Sexual Violence Prevention and Support Centre, in addition to other individuals and/or services on campus and in the community that are identified as potential supports through this process. It is designed to minimize the risk of exposure to harm and maximize opportunities for safety. The SVPS Centre’s approach to safety planning is: 

  • Trauma-informed;  
  • Client-centred;  
  • Case specific; 
  • Collaborative and conversational; 
  • Embedded within the broader strategy to support clients’ wellness;  
  • Structured with professional judgement in-mind, and 
  • Culturally appropriate. 

If you have had an experience of sexual violence or sexual harassment, you are not alone. Support is available through the SVPS Centre and consultations are available by phone, e-mail, and video conferencing. Call or email us to learn more or make an appointment: 

  • Phone: 416-978-2266  
  • Email: svpscentre@utoronto.ca