Service User Rights

We do not discriminate based on gender, age, health status, socioeconomic status, race, parental responsibility, language, immigration status, religious or political affiliations, or physical, mental or emotional ability.

We follow the Empowerment Model, a service user-centered philosophy that is based on strengths, sensitive to individual experiences of oppression, and fosters self-determination.

As a service user, you:

  • You have a right to respectful treatment.

  • You have a right to decide whether to engage with the services of Steps to End Domestic Violence and to discontinue services at any time.

  • You have a right to know what records are kept regarding the services you receive from Steps to End Domestic Violence.

  • You have the right to have your information/records kept confidential according to Vermont and federal law.

    12.S.A. § 1614 Victim and Crisis Worker Privilege   

    VAWA 2013 Section 3: 42 U.S.C. 13925 (a)(20) & (b)(2)

    FVPSA42 U.S.C. 10406(c)(5)

  • You have the right to choose whether to have Steps to End Domestic Violence release information to other service providers or entities. Consenting to release your information is completely voluntary and can be revoked at any time at your request.

  • You have the right, prior to consenting to release your information, to receive a thorough explanation of the implications of sharing your information outside of Steps to End Domestic Violence.

  • You have the right to offer suggestions and input concerning Steps to End Domestic Violence services and staff.

  • You have a right to have your complaints concerning Steps to End Domestic Violence services heard.

To File a Complaint:

We strongly encourage you to speak directly with the staff member involved to voice your concerns. You can reach us at (802) 658-1996.

If this is unsuccessful or not possible, you may send a written complaint to:

Office of the Executive Director
PO Box 1535
Burlington, VT 05402

If the concern remains unresolved, contact:

Board of Directors
PO Box 1535
Burlington, VT 05402

If you believe you have been discriminated against, submit your complaint to the Executive Director. If your complaint is not resolved to your satisfaction, you have the right to file a complaint with the Vermont Attorney General’s office:

Attorney General’s Office - Civil Rights Division
109 State Street
Montpelier, VT 05609-1001
Phone: (802) 828-3657
Toll-Free: (888) 745-9195
fax: (802) 828-3187
Email: civilrights@atg.state.vt.us