Safe Disclosure Office

We encourage all individuals wishing to make a disclosure to begin by emailing disclosure@norquest.ca.

An advisor will reach out to you to book an appointment via:

• Virtual meeting
• In-person
• Over the phone

Confidentiality and privacy will still be maintained to the extent possible, as the Safe Disclosure Office recognizes the importance of protecting your identity and the information you share.

However, the Safe Disclosure Office may be required to take action when there is a legal obligation to report, such as the exploitation of minors, acting on reports of imminent harm, or where disclosure of an incident of harassment or violence triggers a legally required investigation of the matter. 

The Disclosure should include the following information:

• the nature of the activity giving rise to the improper activity or wrongdoing;
• a description of all parties involved;
• possible violations of law or college policy; and
• any other information useful in evaluating the Disclosure.

After disclosure is made to a Safe Disclosure Office, the office will carefully review the information provided. The Safe Disclosure Office will focus on providing appropriate options and support to the individual who made the disclosure. They will prioritize listening to your concerns and ensuring that you are heard. You will be given the opportunity to discuss your situation, receive guidance, and explore potential courses of action.

The office will respect your agency and provide you with choices on how you want to proceed. This may include actions such as mediation, conflict resolution, seeking advice from relevant parties, or implementing changes to organizational policies and procedures.

Referrals will consider:

• The desired outcome of the person making the disclosure
• Applicable College policies, procedure and agreements
• Applicable Acts and legislation
• Health and Safety (including cultural and emotional safety)

To empower those making a disclosure, multiple options will be provided, including the option to “do nothing” (when possible).

It's important to note that the specific steps taken after a disclosure, including the decision to initiate an investigation or not, will depend on NorQuest’s policies and the nature of the disclosure.