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Sexual Assault

‍What is sexual assault?

  • Sexual assault include any non-consensual behaviour that violates a person's sexual autonomy, such as unwanted kissing, touching, vaginal or anal penetration, and oral sex. 

About Consent

  • In Canadian law, consent is defined as the voluntary agreement to participate in sexual activity. Permission for sexual touching is only valid when explicitly granted through words or actions. 
  • Silence or passivity cannot be interpreted as consent. 
  • Canadian law specifies that it is not legally possible to consent to sexual activity in advance for a future time when one may be unconscious.

What should I do if I am being sexually assaulted?

  • You can report it to the police by calling 9-1-1. When you make the initial call, a civilian dispatcher will request basic information, and a patrolling police officer will be assigned to investigate. You have the option to inform the police at any point if you no longer wish to proceed with a criminal investigation.
  • If you choose not to report or delay reporting it. It's recommended to consider visiting a hospital to undergo a medical examination conducted by a doctor. This examination can help preserve any DNA evidence that might assist investigators if you decide to report the assault later.
  • If you undergo a sexual assault examination, it should be done before showeering. You should also request blood and urine samples to be taken if you suspect that you were drugged. Additionally, keep any clothing you were wearing during the assault, as medical staff will preserve these items as evidence and will not contact the police without your consent.

I need help but I do not want to involve police

There is a lot of community victim services organizations who are more than willing to provide assistance. We acknowledge that it is difficult to share your experiences. However, we encourage you to reach out for help. Police WILL NOT be involved without your consent.

SALAL Sexual Violence Support Centre

  • https://www.salalsvsc.ca/
  • Toll-free 24 hours crisis and information line at 1-877-392-7583 or 604-255-6344 (Lower Mainland)
  • Text 604-245-2425

VictimLink BC

  • Toll-free 24 hours crisis & information line at 1-800-563-0808
  • 211-victimlinkbc@uwbc.ca

Vancouver General Hospital - Emergency Department

AMS Sexual Assault Support Centre

Battered Wommen’s Support Services (BWSS)

Vancouver Rape Relief & Women’s Shelter

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