Sexual Assault and Violence

If you’ve experienced sexual assault or violence, Southwestern Public Health (SWPH) is here to support you. You’re not alone, and we’re here to help. We can connect you with services for support and arrange transportation if you need it. You can also visit our sexual health clinics for emergency contraception and testing for sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

What is consent in a relationship?

Consent means agreeing to something freely and without pressure. You have the right to say no to any kind of sexual activity, no matter who it’s with. If someone does not respect your choice, it’s a crime and should be reported.

Learn more about what healthy consent looks like on our safe sex page.

What is sexual assault?

Sexual assault happens when someone touches you sexually or forces you into sexual activity without your consent. It can include:

• Unwanted touching or groping

• Kissing

• Sexual intercourse or other sexual acts you didn’t agree to

It can happen to anyone, regardless of age, gender, or sexual orientation. Sexual assault is never the victim’s fault.

Who commits sexual assault?

Sexual assault is most often committed by someone the victim knows. This could be:

• A romantic partner or ex-partner

• A friend, coworker, or family member

• A caregiver or authority figure

Sometimes, sexual assault is committed by strangers, but this is less common.

What do I do if I have been sexually assaulted?

If you’ve been sexually assaulted, remember: it’s not your fault, and help is available. Here’s what you can do:

1. Get to a safe place: Tell someone you trust, like a friend or family member.

2. Seek medical care: Visit a hospital, your doctor, or one of our sexual health clinics to get checked.

3. Contact your local Sexual Assault Support Centre: They can guide you through what to do next and provide emotional support.

4. Call the police (optional): If you choose to report the assault, avoid showering, changing your clothes, or cleaning up the area where it happened. This can help keep evidence safe.

How can I support someone who has been sexually assaulted?

If someone you know has been sexually assaulted, here’s how you can support them:

• Listen: Let them talk and share how they’re feeling without judgement

• Believe them: Let them know it’s not their fault and that you’re there for them

• Respect their choices: Let them decide what to do next and support their decisions

• Help them get care: Offer to help them find support services or medical care when they’re ready

Who can I contact for more support on sexual assault?

Here are local organizations that can help if you or someone you know has been sexually assaulted:

• Anova London: 519-642-3000 or 1-800-265-1576

• Violence Against Women Services Elgin County: 519-633-0155 or 1-800-265-4305

• Domestic Abuse Services Oxford: 519-539-4811 or 1-800-265-1938

• Family & Children Services Elgin: 519-631-1492 or 1-800-260-6960

• Children’s Aid Society of Oxford County: 519-539-6176 or 1-800-250-7010

• Canadian Mental Health Association Elgin: 519-633-1781

• Canadian Mental Health Association Oxford: 519-539-8055

• Police Services:

• Elgin OPP: 519-631-2920

• St. Thomas Police: 519-631-1224

• Oxford OPP: 519-485-6554

• Woodstock Police: 519-537-2323

Contact our Sexual Health Team for additional support

If you have questions or need support:

• Email our St. Thomas clinic

• Email our Woodstock clinic

• You can also call a Public Health Nurse at 1-800-922-0096

We’re here to help—your information will always be kept confidential.