Role of Sexual Assault / Partner Abuse Care Centre (GBHS)

Only with the consent of the victim, collect a SAEK (sexual assault evidence kit) including forensic evidence and photographs ,
Report as per ‘duty to report’ according to the Child, Youth and Family Services Act and work with local Child and Family Services (BGCFS), to ensure that assessment and possible treatment for a child victim is attained as soon as possible,
Provide follow-up care, including a review of laboratory results, further documentation of injury and monitoring of health concerns,
Provide information on services available in the community and facilitate referrals for victims and or the parent(s)/guardian(s) or caregiver(s) of a victimized child,
Provide safety planning,
Work with Policing Services at Saugeen (OPP) and Nawash First Nations, Native Child Welfare Program, Anishnabek Child and Youth Services, Health Care Services and Kabaeshiwim Respite – Women’s Shelter to coordinate services that will keep victims safe and provide collaborative and consistent services to support children and meet their identified cultural and other needs,
The Sexual Assault / Partner Abuse Care Centre has counselors that provide crisis trauma counselling during the week, and ongoing counselling for any victim who is 12 years and older, and for the caregiver(s)/parent(s) of children

Sexual Assault / Partner Abuse Care Centre (SAPACC) will:

Through the ER, specially educated nurses under SAPACC, provide 24/7 support and information regarding options for care after a recent assault. And provide physical examination, assessment, and treatment of injuries including referral to an emergency physician if necessary, as well as medications to prevent or limit risk of contracting sexually transmitted infections and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), and provide emergency contraception if needed,

Use a trauma and violence informed approach with all victims of sexual and domestic violence that includes: a focus on victim safety, establishing trust, using a sensitive, compassionate and non judgmental approach that demonstrates caring and understanding, and consideration of the impact of trauma on memory and the behavior of victims. Additional information under Trauma Informed Response.