Sexual Violence Disclosure Training

The aim of this training is to train staff how to respond to disclosures of sexual violence. Students (or staff) could disclose to anyone so it is important that all staff know what to do.

The University of York has developed CPD training on 'first response' to disclosures of sexual violence through a Europe wide project called USVreact. York St John University are one of the associate partners in this evidence based programme. The aim of the USVreact project is to train staff to develop new skills and strategies for responding to students who disclose sexual harassment, abuse or violence, but does not expect staff to take on a special role in relation to these types of disclosures within the University. We are aiming to train a sizeable number of staff within York St John University so that we foster a wider culture of empathy and understanding in relation to these issues, rather than it being the ‘special responsibility’ of a handful of staff.

The training is based on research evidence and offers 'best practice' for supporting survivors of sexual violence and overcoming barriers to disclosure. The project evaluation so far indicates that this training is effective in improving participants' knowledge and understanding of sexual violence and in preparing them for responding to disclosures.

Learning outcomes

• Understand sexual violence and the complexity of it

• Relate sexual violence to cultural and social norms and why some student groups might be more vulnerable

• Understand the impact of sexual violence on survivors and different ways in which disclosure might occur

• Develop the skills to respond to disclosures in an empathetic and supportive manner

• Gain the knowledge to refer student to options for further help if they wish

While this training is separate from the IDAS champions training it does complement our Building Healthy Relationships project. The recent staff survey undertaken as part of the building Healthy Relationships project highlighted that staff want more training to deal with these issues. Upskilling staff to deal with difficult disclosures is a really important part of the project so please do consider taking this opportunity. 

We look forward to seeing you for the training!