Addressing the risk of retaliation
If no such statement exists, encourage development of an official statement prohibiting and clearly outlining consequences for retaliation against complainants. Highlight this statement in information and awareness materials and sessions.
In focus groups, many students raised concerns about retaliation against victims/survivors who file reports of sexual assault with their universities. These concerns may impede disclosure or reporting on the part of victims/survivors. On the other hand, letting students know that there are consequences for such retaliation may provide reassurance to victims/survivors and may discourage retaliation on the part of respondents.