Confidential Advisors
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Confidential advisors at via

Confidential Advisors

Since 2023, via has had confidential advisors. The confidential advisors at via are there for members as a point of contact for inappropriate behavior within via, and for the board as an advisory resource on social safety within the association. The advisors work independently and confidentially. They are available for victims, the accused, and other involved parties.

What does a confidential advisor do?

A confidential advisor within a student association has the primary task of creating a safe environment for all members. They are there to listen, provide support, and handle any concerns or issues raised by members confidentially. In addition, they advise the board, both proactively and upon request, on social safety topics such as atmosphere, culture, a safe climate, and integrity issues, offering suggestions for improvement when possible or participating in discussions on these matters.

What can I approach a confidential advisor for?

Besides the board, the confidential advisor is the first point of contact for anyone in the association who has comments, questions, or signals regarding inappropriate behavior, breaches of integrity, or who simply wants to discuss a specific situation. Confidential advisors are open to victims, the accused, and other involved parties. It does not have to involve members of the association, as long as they are in some way connected to it.

What can I expect from a conversation?

A conversation with a confidential advisor is intended to provide a safe and supportive environment where you can freely talk about your concerns, problems, or experiences. Here are some things you can expect during such a conversation:

Confidentiality: Everything discussed with the advisor remains between you and them, unless there is a direct danger to you or others. You can speak freely, knowing your privacy is respected.

Support and understanding: The advisor will listen without judgment and with empathy for your situation. They are there to support you and help find solutions to your problems.

Advice and information: If desired, the advisor can offer guidance on how to handle your situation. They can also inform you about possible steps to obtain further support.

Follow-up: Depending on the nature of your concerns or issues, the advisor may schedule follow-up meetings to check in on you and provide additional support if needed.

In short, a conversation with a confidential advisor is meant to give you a safe space to talk about what is troubling you, with the reassurance that you will be heard, supported, and respected.

Confidentiality

A conversation with a confidential advisor is confidential. This means the advisor handles the information discreetly and does not share it with others without reason. However, there is no professional secrecy as exists for doctors or lawyers. The advisor can never guarantee anonymity or confidentiality in advance and may share information with the board if:

  • There is an emergency requiring immediate police intervention or medical assistance.
  • You are in danger and cannot or do not dare to act to protect yourself.
  • Maintaining anonymity would cause harm or danger to others, and this can be prevented.
  • Dutch law requires the advisor to act or report to the police in certain situations.
  • The advisor themselves is in psychological distress due to the knowledge they hold.

How do I contact a confidential advisor?

Below on the poster, you can find the contact information of our confidential advisors. Of course, you can also approach them when you see them walking around campus for example.

If you wish to speak to a confidential advisor from another association, the contact information is below the poster.

Confidential Advisers Poster

Within our study association, confidential advisors are available for any member who wants to talk about something in a safe and private setting. You can turn to them with concerns about unwanted behavior, tensions within a committee, or personal issues that may affect your studies or association life.

Confidential advisors provide a listening ear without judgment. They can help you explore possible next steps and guide you towards the right support if needed. Everything you share will remain confidential, unless you explicitly give permission to pass on information.

Their main goal is to make sure everyone feels comfortable, respected, and safe within the association. Whether the matter is small or significant, confidential advisors are there to listen and support you.

Confidential advisers from other associations