Sexual Assault Victim Support
What can I do after I have been sexually assaulted?
Victims of sexual assault have the power to make a number of different choices. As a sexual assault victim, you may:
- Report the crime to police and provide a statement. Once a statement has been provided, victims can request police involvement, or that police not charge the offender. You will be offered the option of providing a Sexual Assault Evidence Kit (SAEK).
- Did you know some sexual assaults can now be reported online? Learn more about online reporting.
- Learn more about the role of police in a sexual assault investigation
- Have a Sexual Assault Evidence Kit (SAEK) administered at the hospital. Victims then have a choice of requesting police involvement or no police involvement, with the kit being held for up to six months.
- Complete an anonymous report.
- Do nothing. If you choose this option, still consider seeking support.
What is a Sexual Assault Evidence Kit (SAEK)
A Sexual Assault Evidence Kit (SAEK) is a kit intended to collect samples of evidence from your body that may be analyzed by the Centre of Forensic Sciences and used in the police investigation and potential legal proceedings.
A SAEK is administered by a specially-trained nurse in a private hospital space. You may decide to stop this process at any time and you will be informed of all samples required.
What if the sexual assault involved an intimate partner?
In Ontario, police officers must proceed with charges related specifically to domestic violence, which includes any use of physical or sexual force, actual or threatened, in an intimate relationship. It also includes emotional/psychological abuse or harassing behaviour.
If, during a domestic violence investigation, it's determined that a sexual assault has been committed, the police shall proceed with charges regardless of the victim's wishes.
Only a Crown Attorney can withdraw this charge.
Find Help
Victim Services of York Region
Victim Services of York Region and York Regional Police work in partnership to provide emotional support and practical assistance to persons victimized by crime or traumatic circumstances. Staff members provide crisis response, telephone assistance and referrals to community agencies that offer long-term counselling and financial support.
Victim Services of York Region
16775 Yonge Street
Suite 207
Newmarket, ON L3X 2P8
905-953-5363
Women's Support Network of York Region
The Women's Support Network of York Region is a rape crisis/sexual violence centre dedicated to providing free, confidential services for individuals who have experienced any form of sexual violence.
Women's Support Network of York Region
109-1110 Stellar Drive
Newmarket, ON L3Y 7B7
24-hour crisis line: 1-800-263-6734
York Region Centre for Community Safety (YRCCS)
YRCCS is a collaboration of community agencies dedicated to building a safer community for those affected by violence, including intimate partner violence, family violence and human trafficking. On-site staff provide transition and housing services and crisis support to victims in one location.
York Region Centre for Community Safety (YRCCS)
25 Deverill Court, Suite 107
Markham, ON L6GX 0C7
905-836-7601 ext. 100
Toll free: 1-855-541-2220
Domestic Abuse and Sexual Assault (DASA) Care Centre
The DASA Care Centre is a regional care centre for victims of sexual assault and domestic abuse. The centre offers specialized care for trauma related to abuse and assault, as well as client counseling to family members and caregivers. DASA Emergency Care Services are available through the Emergency Department at Mackenzie Health in Richmond Hill.
DASA Emergency Care Services
10 Trench Street
Richmond Hill, ON L4C 4Z3
Guide for Sexual Assault Survivors
Guide for Sexual Assault Survivors - This guide provides victims with additional information about support services and the reporting and criminal justice processes.
