Free campus resource now available for those experiencing interpersonal violence
The University of Maine and its regional campus, the University of Maine at Machias, are now offering a Confidential Resource Advisor (CRA) to provide free emergency and ongoing support for faculty and staff impacted by sexual violence, relationship violence and stalking. CRAs play a crucial role in supporting survivors by providing a safe and nonjudgmental space for them to share their experiences.
Jen England, a former English professor and director of the Women’s Resource Center at Hamline University in Minnesota, has served as the CRA for UMaine since July 2023. She is available in person and via Zoom to assist those experiencing interpersonal violence.
“I think a lot of people might first think of Title IX. Title IX covers more ground. My role is truly to just provide support and resources. The other main difference is that I am confidential. Unless someone is disclosing child abuse, nothing that they say to me goes anywhere unless they want it to. I’m one of the few people essentially exempt from being a mandatory reporter,” England said.
England’s services are available to help UMaine employees and students process their experiences; determine next steps; connect with resources for health, safety and support; and more. Ultimately, it is up to the individual to decide whether to take advantage of resources beyond England’s purview.
“My goal is to give some power and agency back to people who have had it taken away and to provide them with as many options as possible. I’m here to make sure individuals are physically and mentally okay, and that they’re safe,” England said. “My hope is that those folks who don’t want to talk to somebody who isn’t confidential or don’t want to report an incident can still get the support that they need and deserve.”
These services are free and confidential for all UMaine employees and students. To learn more about the services the CRA can provide, visit maine.edu/confidential-resource-advisor.
To schedule an appointment with England, visit tinyurl.com/MeetJenEngland or contact her at 207.581.4014 (UMaine), 207.255.1472 (UMaine Machias) or jennifer.l.england@maine.edu.