Domestic violence
Domestic violence (intimate relationship violence) occurs when a person controls their current or former partner (married, dating, living together, or have a child in common) through:
- Coercion;
- Emotional abuse;
- Controlling finances;
- Cultural abuse;
- Intimidation;
- Physical violence;
- Sexual abuse
- Stalking; and
- Threats.
Students, staff, faculty or visitors who are affected by domestic violence and fear a current or former intimate partner (who may be on campus or who may come to campus) may pose a risk to anyone on campus, must report this concern to Campus Security.
If an individual discloses being a victim/target of domestic violence:
- Let him or her know you are concerned and that you’ll support his or her needs for safety, accommodations and referrals to appropriate resources;
- Respect confidentiality, telling only those who need to know (i.e. Campus Security and the Office of Campus Safety). If someone is threatened with violence on campus, you are obliged under the Occupational Health and Safety Act to report the concern to Campus Security; and
- Individuals with restraining orders are strongly encouraged to provide the Office of Campus Safety with a copy of the order.
If an individual discloses committing domestic violence, the staff/faculty should inform the individual that the university has a strict policy against domestic violence. Be clear that the individual will be disciplined if the violence takes place anywhere on campus.
Persons in positions of authority (including deans, directors, chairs, supervisors, faculty, graduate student instructors, coaches or others who oversee employees or students) have an obligation to contact the appropriate resources if they see or are informed of domestic violence incidents or threats of violence.
Employees can seek assistance from their Human Resources representative. Campus Security should be contacted at 905.721.8668 ext. 2400 or 905.721.3211.
Additional resources
Durham Rape Crisis Centre
www.durhamrapecrisiscentre.com
Family Law
www.onefamilylaw.ca
Neighbours, Friends and Families Campaign
www.neighboursfriendsandfamilies.ca
