Introduction

REGARDLESS of when, where or how it happened,
the person who assaulted you is at fault. You are NOT to blame!


Who We ARE...
The Sexual Assault Care Centre (SACC)/Partner Assault Clinic (PAC) is a program of the Sault Area Hospitals. We are a team of specialized health care professionals who provide emotional and medical care to female and male victims of sexual assault of all ages. Nurses and physicians are on call 24 hours a day to respond to all cases of sexual assault or partner assault (domestic violence). Counsellors are available for follow up counselling.

What is Sexual Assault?
Any form of sexual activity with another person without his or her consent. A sexual assault may include the use of physical force, threat or intimidation.

What is Sexual Abuse?
Sexual abuse is the exploitation of a child by a teen or adult who may be in a position of trust or authority. This can include touching, fondling, kissing, exposure of genitals, genital contact and/or intercourse.

What is Partner Assault (also referred to as Domestic Abuse)?
Partner assault (also referred to as domestic violence) is a crime. It results from an imbalance in power and control over one's partner. Domestic violence is primarily committed by men against women but also occurs in same sex relationships and by women against men. All survivors are not physically battered or beaten. Abuse can include other forms of mistreatment and cruelty such as constant threatening, psychological/emotional, sexual, financial/material, spritual and verbal abuse.

Who can use these services?
We are open to men, women and children of all ages, who have been sexually assaulted or sexually abused or who are victims of partner assault.

Families, friends, partners and/or spouses affected by sexual assault, abuse, or partner assault.

Anyone living in the Sault Ste. Marie or District of Algoma who needs information or referral services.

People of all cultures, sexual orientations and lifestyles are accepted and supported.

When should you contact us?
  • After a physical or sexual assault, we provide immediate medical care and crisis counselling. Photographs of injuries can be taken; medication for sexually transmitted diseases and pregnancy prevention can be provided. You will decide what type of treatment (if any) that you want: The choice is yours.
  • Collection and recording of evidence for criminal investigation is available if desired
  • If you are trying to deal with the difficult thoughts and feelings following a recent assault, our counsellors are available to help

What you can expect:
  • Our staff understands and will be able to assist you in a confidential manner.
  • We respect your personal choices
  • Our services are free, covered through your Health Card.

What do you do?
We offer medical examinations, photography if you choose, testing and forensic evidence gathering to men, women and children of all ages who have been sexually abused or assaulted or who are victims of partner assault.

We also offer follow up care for people who have been sexually assaulted -- this can include testing for sexually transmitted diseases, medications, follow-up of any injuries acquired as a result of a sexual assault.

An important function of the S.A.C.C./P.A.C. is to provide sexual assault/abuse and partner assault education, prevention and outreach to both professional and community groups. S.A.C.C./P.A.C. staff will speak to groups or classes on the afore mentioned topics. Professional training and community awareness is arranged upon request.

To better understand, prevent and respond to sexual assault/abuse and partner assault, the S.A.C.C./P.A.C. is committed to research. We have a comprehensive library of pamphlets, books, articles and videos which is available to the community at no charge. A listing of our books and videos .

What kind of sexual abuse/assault?
Any and all kinds. We provide Emergency Services within 72-hours of the incident as well as counselling for dated sexual abuse (from the past). We provide short-term (crisis) and long term counselling in a comfortable and private setting. Group counselling is also available.

Where can I find the SACC?
  • Come to Sault Area Hospitals Emergency Department
  • Sexual Assault Emergency Services are available 24 hours (705) 759 - 3434
  • Office hours are Monday to Friday 8:00am - 4:00pm (705) 759 - 5143, Fax: (705) 945- 1363
  • Sexual Assault Care Centre Co-Ordinator (705) 759 - 5143

Help is available!