There is much that you can do to lessen your risk of being assaulted.  However, you may be a victim of an assault in spite of your efforts to take precautions.  Even if the assault occurred in a situation in which you put yourself at risk, in your own viewpoint, or the viewpoint of others, do not blame yourself for what happened.  To leave your apartment door unlocked, or to hitchhike is obviously taking a chance with your personal safety.  But if you are hurt in such circumstances, the person responsible should not be allowed to get away with this behavior.  Compare this to a situation in which you were injured when a drunk driver hit your car.  It would be absurd to blame yourself for what happened because you put yourself at a risk by not wearing a seatbelt.  Many people are victims of sexual abuse and do not report it because of judgmental attitudes about who is responsible.

 Sexual Assault Centre staff and volunteers are available to give emotional support if you are a victim of sexual assault. They can also accompany you to the hospital, police station, and to court.

 423-4121    24 Hour Crisis line

423-4102    Business Line (9-5)

421-8734 Fax

420-1482  Telephone Device for the Deaf (TDD)  

or call the office for more information.