Writer: Vedanshi
CW: Discussion of violence, harassment, abuse
Before you read ahead: this article has general resources for the province of Ontario. We also have dedicated resource articles for…
We’re going to share some available options for seeking support after a sexual assault, or for those who have experienced domestic abuse or harassment. When someone is assaulted, their choice is taken away from them. When deciding what kind of support to seek, the choice is in the survivor’s hands, every step of the way.
If there is an immediate threat to your (or someone else’s) life: call 911.
A reminder for allies: If someone has been sexually assaulted, it was not their fault. They may not remember what exactly happened, and that is normal. Be kind, be non-judgemental, and be willing to support the choices they are ready to make for themselves. You can also share this article with a survivor to support them in identifying their options.
Learn about options for support, and ways to take action:
Our article on 'Crisis Support' provides a general idea on the types of support services available to survivors. Our article titled 'What do I do?' summarizes what can be done in this kind of a situation, both for the victim/survivor and their supportive allies. This includes medical help, mental health support, police action, legal support, or seeking physical safety in a shelter.
SAFE BUDDIES
A Phone Safe Buddy can be on the line with you and make sure you get to your destination safely. Learn more about requesting a Safe Buddy from anywhere in Canada on our website: boltsafety.org/safebuddies
INFORMATION DATABASES
Trillium Health Partners: Regional Sexual Assault & Domestic Violence Services
"We help individuals who have been sexually assaulted or have been victims of domestic violence within the Peel Region (Mississauga, Brampton and Caledon area)."
Mississauga Legal Clinic: Abuse or Assault Related Services
Peel Region: Where to get help
Information provided includes 24-hour crisis-lines, hospitals and health services, shelters, community counselling and support services, legal services, and more.
COUNSELLING SERVICES
Chantel’s Place
Phone: (905) 848 - 7689
Family Transition Place (Counselling Service)
Website: familytransitionplace.ca
CRISIS LINES
Assaulted Women's Helpline:
Phone: 1-e866-863-0511 or TTY 1-866-863-7868
Website: www.awhl.org
Information on services available in Ontario. "The Assaulted Women's Helpline provides 24-hour, 7-days-a-week crisis counselling, emotional support, information and referrals to women in up to 154 languages."
Family Transition Place
24 Hour Support Line: 1-800-265-9178
Website: familytransitionplace.ca
Hope 24/7
24/7 Hotline: 1-800-810-0180
Website: www.hope247.ca
SAFE SPACES, FORENSIC, AND MEDICAL SUPPORT
Mississauga, Ontario: Chantel's Place
Call: 905-848-7580 ext. 2548
About: "Chantel’s Place is a private; secure area that provides a comfortable and supportive atmosphere for survivors of sexual assault and domestic violence irrespective of gender, age, and ethnicity. The Examination Room is equipped with a screen for photographing injuries, forensic tools, and a privacy screen for survivors who require the support of an interpreter. If a survivor wishes to involve police, a separate Interview Room is available to use once the medical examination has taken place. To reduce the stress of visiting a police station, the room is set up to videotape statements."
Brampton, Ontario: Hope 24/7 (Shelter)
Call: (905) 792-0821
Website: www.hope247.ca
Family Transition Place (Shelter)
Website: familytransitionplace.ca/shelter
LEGAL SUPPORT
Victim Services of Peel
24/7 Helpline: 905-568-1068
Court Advocacy: "We assist as a court advocate within the judicial process to help ensure that victims’ rights are upheld, and that the courts take the required steps to maintain our clients’ safety. Court advocacy includes communication on behalf of clients, monitoring of bail hearings, and same-day outcome communications to the client."
Government of Ontario: Victim Witness Assistance Program
Victim Support Line: 416-314-2447
Call Toll-free: 1-888-579-2888
About: "The Victim/Witness Assistance Program is a court-based program that provides information, help and support to victims and witnesses of crime so they can understand and participate in the criminal court process. A victim/witness service worker will talk with you and assist you based on your specific case and needs."
COPYWRITING SERVICES FOR SURVIVORS
itsharpo collaborations offers copywriting services for survivors hoping to craft various forms of writing material. Their service can support survivors with their victim impact statements or writing out their appeals. To learn more and get in touch, visit their website at www.itsharpo.com
Know a resource that should be listed on our database?
Send us an email at info@boltsafety.org