Creating a safety plan that meets the specific needs of students in a campus environment presents unique challenges and opportunities. Students are often entirely dependent on the college or university to create a safe learning environment and address their physical, emotional, and academic safety. Students may have limited or no access to money, may be far from their parents, may not have a car, often have assigned housing, as well as rigid class schedules. Victims face the danger that an accused person knows their class schedule, where they park, and other study, housing, and work locations. While the campus environment poses safety risks for victims, it also increases the opportunity for Carroll to provide options for victims that help them stay safe.
Student victims with disabilities may have protections and accommodations under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act and the Americans with Disabilities Act. Federal laws may be useful when discussing accommodation options.
Safety Planning is not always a one-time conversation.
- Initial conversations should address immediate safety needs. Over time, new concerns may arise that require adjusting the safety plan. For many victims of sexual trauma, enhancing emotional, mental, physical, and economic safety will be a consideration for years after the assault. At any time a victim may modify their safety plans.
- Victims may need assistance in implementing their safety plans. This may include the victim considering whether to alert a faculty member, coach, work supervisor, RA, OM, or anyone else who might be able to assist in implementing the safety plan. It is important to understand the options available and the safety plan the victim decides upon.
For a list of questions to consider when making a safety plan, please click here