Model Policy on Protection Against Retaliation

The (agency) protects all residents and staff who report sexual abuse or sexual harassment or cooperate with investigations of sexual abuse or sexual harassment from retaliation by other residents or staff. Ways of protecting from retaliation may include:

• housing changes or transfers of alleged victims or abusers
• removal of alleged staff or resident abusers from contact with victims
• support services for staff and residents who fear retaliation

Any housing changes will comply with policies and procedures implemented in compliance with PREA Standard 115.342 and any other relevant policy statements.

For at least 90 days following a report designated staff monitor for potential retaliation, including disciplinary reports, employee performance reviews, housing or program changes, and staff scheduling and assignments. Monitoring includes daily/weekly/monthly status checks with residents.

Additional policy and procedure features:

• policy designates who is responsible for monitoring retaliation
• policy specifies ways for single unit facilities to ensure separation of alleged victims and abusers, including possible agreement with another facility
• policy specifies avenues for reporting retaliation, including the private method for staff reporting required by Standard 115.351(e)

PREA Standard 115.367
PREA Standard 115.368
Back to PREA Standards