Are you a current or former member of the RCMP in need of support due to sexual trauma or harassment? You don't need to suffer in silence.
About supports and services
Current or former RCMP members with a diagnosed, chronic health condition due to sexual trauma and harassment resulting from their service may be entitled to disability benefits. Benefits can cover conditions such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, depression and other mental health or physical conditions.
RCMP members whose injuries result in disability are entitled to disability benefits as outlined in Section 32 of the RCMP Superannuation Act. VAC administers benefits on behalf of the RCMP.
How to apply
You can apply by:
- using the online guided form through your My VAC Account or by filling out the form and mailing it to us.
- making an appointment with a VAC office near you to answer your questions or walk you through the application.
- visiting a Service Canada location, filling out the application and mailing it to us.
Applications for disability benefits need supporting medical information from your treating physician or psychologist. The medical information needs to establish a diagnosed, chronic health condition and describe links between the medical condition, sexual trauma or harassment, and your service in the RCMP. For sexual trauma and harassment claims, VAC accepts that the incident occurred if there is no evidence to the contrary. VAC has a checklist of what is needed to apply and how we assess your application.
You may qualify for health care benefits after being approved for disability benefits.
If you were denied disability benefits in the past for claims arising from sexual trauma, you have the right to review or appeal the decision. You can apply for benefits even if you have received compensation through a lawsuit, settlement, or other type of claim.
Other support
VAC Assistance Service
You can speak to a mental health professional any time by calling the VAC Assistance Service at 1-800-268-7708. This service is a 24-hour, toll-free help line for military and RCMP Veterans, their families, and caregivers. It provides immediate, psychological support. You do not need to be a client of VAC to access this service, which provides up to 20 hours of confidential support for a given issue.
Apply online
If you're registered for My VAC Account, you can apply online using the web form, which makes applying easier. If you aren't registered, you can register now.
My VAC AccountOperational stress injury (OSI) clinics
Current and former RCMP members can access mental health services from VAC’s network of OSI clinics and satellite service sites across the country. VAC can provide services to family members if the current or former RCMP member also attends the OSI clinic. The clinic team provides specialized mental health assessment and treatment, and works closely with community resources to make sure follow-up is available when needed.
VAC can refer you to an OSI clinic. Please contact VAC at 1-866-522-2122 or TDD/TTY 1-833-921-0071. You can also ask about services available at an OSI clinic using your My VAC Account.
Peer support for RCMP
The Support for Operational Stress Injury (SOSI) program is a national peer support network for any former or current RCMP members having difficulty with daily life because of experiences during their service, including sexual trauma and harassment. The program will connect you with effective resources including support from an understanding community of people with similar experiences. For general inquiries about the program, contact a SOSI Coordinator by email.
Case management
When you contact VAC about services, we may offer one-on-one support from a case manager. This person works with you to find the appropriate services for your needs.
Additional resources for sexual trauma
Find support near you through provincial and community-based resources:
- Call or text 9-8-8 to reach the Suicide Crisis Helpline; this national helpline can connect you to a sexual assault centre or service near you.
- Hospitals
- Provincial health lines
- Provincial 211 services
Frequently asked questions
Q1. Will VAC understand my issue as a member or former member of the RCMP?
A1. Yes, VAC has a team dedicated to assisting current and former RCMP members. This team is responsible for administering Disability Benefits and related applications for all current and former RCMP members. These employees have completed VAC trauma-informed training and the training to respond to disclosures of sexual trauma. Once we receive your Disability Benefits application, our RCMP Veterans Benefits Team will review it and decide.
Q2. Can my family members receive support?
A2. If you or your family need immediate support, call the VAC Assistance Service at 1-800-268-7708 or use the online chat to set up an appointment. This service provides free, short-term psychological support with a mental health professional who will help identify your needs and make an appropriate referral to a local mental health professional. It is available to military and RCMP Veterans, their families, and caregivers. You do not need to be a current client of VAC to access this service.
Q3. What policies guide VAC in determining benefit entitlement for RCMP members and Veterans?
A3. There are five key policies that guide how VAC provides benefits and services to current and former RCMP members. VAC updated the last three policies to support decision-making related to sexual trauma:
- Eligibility for Health Care Programs - Royal Canadian Mounted Police
- Royal Canadian Mounted Police Disability Pension Claims
- Disability Benefits in Respect of Wartime and Special Duty Service – The Insurance Principle
- Disability Benefits in Respect of Peacetime Military Service - The Compensation Principle
- Benefit of Doubt
Read more FAQs about the disability benefits program.