If you are a survivor (the affected party) coming to us, here is what you can expect when you get here.
A listening ear
Our staff and peer supporters are here to listen to you. You can share your story, in your own way, and only what you are comfortable with. We are here to listen without judgement.
Peer support
Here at Te Whare Tāwharau we have a diverse team of peer supporters, who are trained not only to support survivors (the affected party) but also their supporters, friends and whānau.
Everything is confidential within the Centre where we take a survivor-led approach to our support work.
Whether you are after someone to talk to or you would like to know about your options moving forward, the peer supporters are capable and invested in working alongside you on your healing journey.
Our peer supporters work closely with staff members, however, you are welcome to request to speak directly with a staff member at any point.
An 'Options to help you stay at university' discussion
We can help you access the necessary resources you need either on or off campus. We provide the following to ensure you complete your educational goals:
- Advocacy
- Information on a range of support options
- Guidance for navigating your support options
Our survivor-led approach empowers you to choose a path forward.
A confidential service
We provide a confidential service. We are here to support you whether or not you file a complaint.
Your personal information will not be shared with anyone outside of Te Whare Tāwharau without consent except:
- Where there is a risk of harm to self or to others
- Where disclosure is required by Court Order or otherwise under the law
- Where disclosure is required to ensure your pastoral care and wellbeing
An inclusive space
We provide an inclusive space, and our doors are open to all genders, sexualities, ethnicities and abilities.
Referrals for resources on campus
We support you in accessing relevant and appropriate University resources.
- Arrange academic special consideration
- University of Otago Campus Chaplains – for faith-based and spiritual support
- Contact your warden or deputy-warden
- Disability Information and Support
- The International Office – for cultural support
- OUSA Student Support
- Pacific Islands Centre – for cultural support
- Proctor's Office
- OUSA Queer Support
- Student Health – for medical assistance
- Te Huka Mātauraka - Maori Centre – for cultural support
- Te Pou Whirinaki – the student wellbeing hub located in the Information Services Building
- Your Lecturers or Course Coordinators
Referrals for resources off campus
We support you to access relevant and appropriate community resources.
- ACC Sensitive Claim, Fund Support Te Whare Tāwharau can assist with finding a therapist
- ŌCASA – Ōtepoti Communities Against Sexual Abuse
- Ōtepoti – Dunedin Whānau Refuge – for women's refuge
- Safe to talk – is a confidential and free sexual harm 24/7 helpline
- Sexual Health Assessment Clinic – at Dunedin Public Hospital
- Shakti – serving migrant and refugee women
- Tautoko Tāne Male Survivors Aotearoa
- Victims information for people affected by sexual harm (information about the court process)
- Victim Support Dunedin – for financial or practical support (has financial hardship grants available)
- Your G.P.
- Youthline
Going with you to see the Proctor, Human Resources or police (if desired)
If you wish to file a report to the Proctor, Human Resources (HR) or the police, we can provide you:
- Information about what to expect
- Support
- Details for what to expect in the reporting process
There are a lot of things to consider before deciding how you wish to proceed. Te Whare Tāwharau staff can discuss the process and all the options with you and help you make the best decision for you.
We can go with you to any meetings or interviews relating to the reporting process.
- More information helping you understand the sexual misconduct investigation process
- We can assist you when seeking no-fault protective measures
- We can assist you in organising Campus Watch escorts around campus if you would like
Advice if you are caring for a friend
If you are caring for a friend, we can offer you guidance and support for how to best look after your friend.
Also, and just as importantly, we can guide you on how to look after yourself as a support person.
More information if you are supporting a survivor of sexual harm