Procedures for Student Mental Health Policy (12.5)

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This online version is for convenience; the official version of this policy is housed in the University Secretariat. In case of discrepancy between the online version and the official version held by the Secretariat, the official version shall prevail.

Approving Authority: Vice-President: Student Affairs

Original Approval Date: TBD

Date of Most Recent Review/Revision: N/A

Administrative Responsibility: Dean of Students Office

Parent Policy: 12.5 Student Mental Health Policy

The procedures mentioned below are for faculty and staff when interacting with a Student of concern and interested in reporting the Student to the Dean of Students Office for elevated support.

1.0 Reporting

1.1 Any Member of the University Community may submit a report relating to a Student of concern.

1.2 A report of a possible Student of concern may be made through the online Care Report referral system, verbally, or in writing to the Dean of Students Office at the Waterloo, Brantford, and Milton Campus or to Special Constable Service.

2.0 Filing a Report

2.1 To facilitate timely resolution, reports should be made as soon as possible to ensure timely outreach and support is offered to the Student if appropriate.

2.2 When filing a report, it is important to include the student's first and last name, the date and time of the interaction, and a description of the interaction.

3.0 Receipt of a Report

3.1 Upon receipt of a report, the Dean of Students Office staff will review the concerns and determine whether the issues fall within the university's jurisdiction to address. If appropriate, outreach to the student may be conducted, or the matter may be referred to an appropriate campus partner for further support.

3.2 Reports are reviewed and assessed by the Dean of Students Office during regular office hours, and as needed, staff will follow up with the faculty and/or staff by email to confirm receipt of the report and/or gather additional information.

3.3 If a faculty and/or staff member feels that the Student of concern, or any Members of the University Community could be in immediate danger, contact Laurier Special Constable Services x3333 or call 911.

3.4 In addressing a report, an employee from the Dean of Students Office may consult with or seek assistance from appropriate University officials or external advisors.

3.5 The integrity and efficacy of the Report process requires that all individuals involved in the referral process consider their actions and obligations under University policies and procedures, including privacy and confidentiality. Referencing 12.5 Student Mental Health Policy, University employees who, by virtue of their position, are privy to information or in possession of documentation pertaining to a Report, shall hold such information in confidence. Confidentiality shall not prevent the University from fulfilling its responsibilities under applicable legislation or where there is a concern relating to the safety or security of individuals.

4.0 Response

4.1 When a Care Report is submitted, faculty and/or staff will receive an automated message that the report has been delivered.

4.2 If appropriate, staff from the Dean of Students Office will send an outreach email to the Student of concern to offer and discuss support related to the information submitted through the referral.

4.3 If direct outreach is not appropriate, staff from the Dean of Students Office will share sample language or information about resources and support with the faculty and/or staff who submitted the report, to encourage the Student of concern to reach out to the Dean of Students Office.