All services provided by the campus advocate are confidential. As an employee of Valley Crisis Center, the advocate is available to meet on campus, in a safe public place off campus, or at Valley Crisis Center’s main office located at 812 W.18th Street in Merced.
As staff and faculty of UC Merced, we understand the unique challenges faced when working closely with students. Often students disclose to someone they feel they can trust; many times this can be a teacher or supervisor, and trying to process the information given can be difficult. The campus advocate can help process the information the staff or faculty received. Undergraduates are not alone in dealing with interpersonal violence, if someone you know (staff or faculty) needs support and resources the campus advocate is available to help with things such as crisis intervention, safety planning, legal support with restraining orders and other community resources. Advocacy support from the CARE Office is available to all members of the campus community.
The resources listed under the "Resources" tab and the "Reporting Options" subtab are available to staff and faculty members, as well as students.
Step-by-Step Guide for Faculty & Staff: How to Help When Receiving a Disclosure
Step 1: Determine if there is an immediate risk–if you witness the incident happening, the perpetrator is in the room or nearby, or if the person feels unsafe at this moment Please call UC Merced Police: 209-228-2677 or dial 911
Step 2: If someone discloses, try to make sure they are in a comfortable environment. Try to minimize the number of people around/who can hear.
ex: "Do you want to talk about this outside? Do you mind if I close the door?"
Then, let them know that you are a responsible employee with certain reporting duties.
ex: "As a staff/faculty member, I have to report instances of sexual assault, dating/domestic violence, or stalking. However, I only have to tell them the information you decide to share. You do not have to say or do anything you don't want to–what you do next is up to you."
Step 3: If they decide to share more, listen attentively and empathetically.
Ex: "Thank you for sharing that with me." "This must be difficult for you; take your time..."
Step 4: Avoid asking for details about the incident- you do not need to know specifics to support them. Instead, focus any questions on what the student would like to do moving forward.
Ex: "Do you know what next steps you would like to take (if any)?" "Are you familiar with the different resources on campus?"
Step 5: Remind them of the different confidential and reporting resources available on campus. Ask if they want you to walk with them to the appropriate office, etc.
Step 6: Review Responsible Employee requirements by visiting ophd.ucmerced.edu/report
Additional resources:
Resource and Referral Options
CARE Brochure
Step-by-Step Guide to Supporting Survivors
Responsible Employee FAQs
