At Chantel’s Place we support sexual assault survivors with compassion and respect. Clients will be informed of all their options for care, reporting, and follow-up services before making their decision to accept all, or a selection, of what services are available.
Some of the specific services for sexual assault clients are:
- The Sexual Assault Evidence Kit (SAEK), designed by the Centre of Forensic Sciences, is used to collect forensic evidence up to 12 days post-sexual assault;
- Forensic documentation is done using the forms provided in the SAEK; and
- Photo-documentation and body-map diagrams of injuries when applicable.
Sexual Assault – Frequently Asked Questions
Sexual assault is any form of sexual activity with another person without their consent. There are many forms of sexual assault, including forced kissing, grabbing, fondling, sexual harassment, and attempted or completed rape (vaginal, oral, or anal penetration by a sex organ, other body part, or foreign object). Sexual assault is about power and control over another individual, depriving them of their right to decide what happens to their body, mind, and spirit.
Clients are in charge of the care they receive while accessing the services at Chantel’s Place. The options of care will be explained to survivors in detail, and you can move forward with all or a selection of what is available.
You have the chance to talk about your experiences with someone who is supportive and understanding. There will be no judgment or pressure to do anything you're not comfortable with. You can also choose to receive further counseling and medical assistance if you wish.
You have the choice to undergo a physical examination to check for any injuries and to be tested for sexually transmitted infections, including chlamydia, gonorrhea, HIV, hepatitis B and C, as well as sexually related infections like bacterial vaginosis, trichomonas, yeast infections, and bladder infections. We also offer pregnancy testing and treatment options to lower the risk of contracting a sexually transmitted infection (STI) or HIV. Additionally, emergency contraception, commonly known as Plan B, is also available.
You have the choice to undergo a Sexual Assault Evidence Kit (SAEK) examination. After completion, the kit can either be submitted to the police immediately or stored for up to six months while you decide whether to involve the authorities. If you decide to do the examination, you and the nurse will decide which samples to collect, and documentation will be done accordingly. Certain portions of the SAEK can be collected regardless of whether you've recently showered or bathed.
Following your appointment, you can choose to have a nurse reach out to you in a few days to check on how you are doing. This nurse can also help facilitate connections with local support and counseling services and offer continuous emotional support. Additionally, options for follow-up testing will be provided to ensure your medical well-being following the initial examination.
