Sexual assault

What is sexual assault?

Sexual assault is any sexual contact that happens without your consent. It can happen to anyone—by a stranger, someone you know, or someone close to you.

It is never your fault. Support is available whether it happened recently or a long time ago.

Understanding consent

  • You have the right to decide whether or not to have sex.
  • You can change your mind at any time, even after sexual activity has started.
  • Any sexual contact without consent is sexual assault.
  • Learn more about consent.

What to do if you or someone you know is a victim of sexual assault or abuse?

If you are in immediate danger, feel threatened or need help now: Call 9-1-1.

If you are not in immediate danger:

  • Preserve evidence if you’re thinking about reporting.
    • If you have not eaten since the assault, avoid food and drink.
    • If you have to pee when you arrive, inform a nurse who can support urine collection.
    • Do not shower or bathe.
    • If you have changed since the assault, bring the clothes you were wearing at the time.

It is OK if you have done any or all the above, an examination can still take place.

Options for medical care and/or reporting

Your choices matter. All services are free, confidential, and respect your decisions. You can change your mind at any time.

Medical care only

  • Treatment for physical injuries.
  • STI and pregnancy prevention (e.g., medication to prevent STIs, morning-after pill).
  • Blood and/or urine testing.
  • Counseling and support services.

Medical care and evidence collection

  • Includes medical care and:
    • Forensic examination with collection of evidence.
    • Storage of evidence for one year (if you are not ready to report to police).

Freezers are not available at all Northern Health sites.

Medical care, evidence collection and police report

  • Includes all the above, plus:
    • Support reporting to police (reporting to the police is up to you).
    • Submission of evidence and assessment record to the police.

Reporting child abuse or neglect

If you think a child or youth under 19 years of age is being abused or neglected, you have the legal duty to report your concern. Phone 1-800-663-9122 at any time of the day or night.

If a child tells you they’ve been abused:

  • Stay calm and thank them for telling you.
  • Tell them you believe them and will help keep them safe.
  • Report the abuse to police or child protective services.
  • If the child or youth is in immediate danger call 9-1-1.

If you are a child or youth and would like to talk to someone, call the Helpline for Children at 310-1234 (no area code is needed). You do not need an area code. You can call at any time of the day or night and you do not have to give your name.

Resources

A sexual assault may affect your life in several ways including your physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual health. You may experience a variety of emotions at this time; this is common. The following resources are here to assist and support you:

Community specific supports

Learn more