Our Services & Approach:
The Nelson Sexual Assault Response Team provides sensitive and comprehensive health care and support to anyone 13+ who has been sexually assaulted within the past 7 days. Our specially trained nurses and doctors will respond to your health care needs in a safe and supportive environment. All services are free, confidential and inclusive. Learn more about the support we can offer and how to access our program below.
Hospital Accompaniment:
If you are a survivor of recent sexual assault or domestic violence over the age of 13, you can request a support worker from NSART to attend Kootenay Lake Hospital with you. We’re here to support you every step of the way – whether it’s providing information, advocating, a hand to hold, or connecting you to resources, you don’t have to do it alone.
- Information about sexual assault, medical and forensic procedures, reporting options, legal options, and community supports and services.
- Advocacy and support during medical attention including the Sexual Assault Forensic Kit.
- Advocacy and information about reporting to NPD/RCMP.
- Information on follow-up counselling and justice-related services
- Information and referrals to other community supports and services
ALL SERVICES ARE FREE & CONFIDENTIAL
We will explain what we can offer and answer any questions you might have. You will decide what you would like us to do and we will respect your decisions. You do not need to involve the police unless you wish to do so. There are several reporting options available to you that we can help explain.
To access our program, go to: Kootenay Lake Hospital Emergency Department, 3 View Street, Nelson, BC 24 hours/day, everyday.
OR connect with a local support worker 24/7 by calling our Anti-Violence Line to find out more about our services and your options, call 1-250-354-4357.
24/7 Anti-Violence Line:
Survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault, ages 13+, and their supports, can reach out to us 24/7 to receive:
- Emotional Support.
- Information about sexual and physical assault, medical and forensic procedures, reporting options, and legal options.
- Information and referrals to other community supports and services.
- Information on follow-up counselling and justice.
Call 24/7: 250-354-4357
Secure Text + Chat is available 7 days a week, 8:30am to midnight:
TXT: 778-608-3900 | Online Chat: servicesfyi.ca/abth-chat-now
Provided with the partnership and support of Aimee Beaulieu Transition House.
Education & Awareness:
NSART is dedicated to prevention through education and raising awareness. Our staff is available to present to various agencies, schools and groups on a variety of topics pertaining to sexual assault including consent and receiving disclosures. Contact Alana McDowell, NSART Project Coordinator, at nelsonsartcoordinator@gmail.com to find out more.
Stay Connected:
Nelson Sexual Assault Response Team is on Instagram + Facebook. Our intention is to use these spaces to educate community, validate survivors, share information about our services, & inspire action to address the root causes of violence. We invite you to give us a follow @sart.nelson to stay connected.
Resources:
NSART materials, including our pamphlet and services posters, are available below. We warmly invite our community partners to share these at your location. To enquire about printed copies, please contact Alana at nelsonsartcoordinator@gmail.com.
Hospital Accompaniment Poster >
Anti-Violence Line Poster >
Nelson Sexual Assault Response Team Services Pamphlet >
