Resources for preventing and responding to sexual or interpersonal violence

In recognition of Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM), we are reaching out to raise awareness about resources available to the Carolina community to prevent sexual or interpersonal violence and to support survivors during the COVID-19 crisis. Social distancing guidelines and closures can create an increased risk of violence for people isolated with abusive partners or family members and can create barriers to resources for people who need support. Recognizing these dynamics, we are providing a list of campus and community resources that may be helpful if you or someone you know is experiencing sexual or interpersonal violence. Many of the resources listed below are able to provide support virtually and by phone.

University Resources for Students and Employees

• Gender Violence Services Coordinators (GVSCs) Provides confidential support for UNC students, faculty, and staff of all gender identities. GVSCs can provide emotional support, help with needs and considerations related to safety planning, and explore options for support and reporting. Confidential appointments are currently available by phone or secure video chat. Contact:gvsc@unc.edu or 919-962-1343.
• Equal Opportunity and Compliance Office Oversees the University’s Policy on Prohibited Discrimination, Harassment, and Related Misconduct as well as the investigation and adjudication process for the prohibited conduct. Report and Response Coordinators are available by phone or video chat to explore support and reporting options and to help connect members of the Carolina community with campus and community resources. Contact: reportandresponse@unc.edu or 919-445-2759.
• University Ombuds Office Serves as a confidential, impartial, and informal resource for students and employees. The Ombuds Office is available to listen, help identify and evaluate options, and offer referrals to other resources. Contact: ombuds@unc.edu or 919-843-8204.

Additional University Resources for Students

• Students who need mental health support can contact Counseling and Psychological Services at 919-966-3658 to schedule a confidential telehealth appointment.
• The CV19 Student Care Hub was created to provide resources to all students during the pandemic.

Additional University Resources for Employees

• For employees who are looking for support, the Employee Assistance Program (EAP) is a confidential resource available to help employees through stressful situations and events. Contact: 877-314-5841 (24-Hours).

Other Resources for Students and Employees

• Compass Center for Women and Families Provides 24/7 confidential support for people affected by all forms of dating and domestic violence. Contact: 919-929-3872 or 919-929-7122 (24-Hours).
• Orange County Rape Crisis Center Provides 24/7 confidential support for people affected by sexual violence. Contact: help line 866-935-4783; text line 919-504-5211, online chat at ocrcc.org.
• NC Coalition Against Domestic Violence Provides resources for survivors and state-wide referrals. Contact: 919-956-9124.
• NC Coalition Against Sexual Assault Provides resources for survivors and state-wide referrals. Contact 919-871-1015.
• The National Domestic Violence Hotline Provides 24/7 confidential support and referrals to resources in each state. Contact: help line 1-800-799-7233; text line LOVEIS to 22522; online chat at thehotline.org.
• RAINN National Sexual Assault Telephone Hotline Provides 24/7 confidential support and referrals to resources in each state. Contact: Help Line 800-656-4673; online chat at rainn.org.

For more information about resources related to all forms of gender-based violence and harassment, please visit safe.unc.edu.

Stay safe and well,

Becci Menghini
Vice Chancellor for Human Resources and Equal Opportunity and Compliance

Jonathan Sauls
Interim Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs