Victim Services

At North Shore Health Network (NSHN), we are committed to providing compassionate, trauma-informed, and patient-centered care for individuals aged 16 and older who have experienced sexual assault. Individuals under the age of 16 are supported through referral to Sault Area Hospital’s specialized sexual assault care services to ensure they receive age-appropriate care.

Our coordinated approach ensures that every person who seeks care at via Victim Services:

receives timely medical assessment and, if they choose, access to forensic examination
is supported with empathy, respect, and emotional care throughout their visit
has access to personalized safety planning
benefits from seamless coordination between our Emergency Department, Victim Services Clinic team, and community partners
is treated with the highest level of respect for their privacy, dignity, and individual choices

Victim Services is part of a coordinated hospital response and works in partnership with the Huron Shores Family Health Team to support comprehensive follow-up care and ongoing services within the primary care setting.

Care provided through Victim Services is grounded in the principles of consent, inclusivity, and trauma-informed practice. All services are guided by informed patient choice - meaning that no medical or forensic care is provided without a patient’s clear, voluntary consent. We are committed to delivering equitable, respectful, and culturally safe care for individuals of all genders, identities, and backgrounds.

Please note: In accordance with Ontario legislation, NSHN healthcare providers are required to assess and meet mandatory reporting obligations to child protection services for any patient under the age of 18.

How Do I Access Victim Services?

Victim Services can be accessed in one of the following ways:

Visit your nearest NSHN Emergency Department
Contact NSHN's Victim Services team directly

Victim Services:

(705) 356-2265, ext. 2370

NOTE: Patients who present to the Thessalon or Richards Landing-Matthews Emergency Departments may be referred to the Blind River site or to Sault Area Hospital’s specialized sexual assault care services, depending on their needs.

When you visit one of NSHN's Emergency Departments after a sexual assault:

You will be provided immediate medical care for any injuries, such as x-rays or stitches.
A specially trained Nurse will meet with you in a quiet, private area to document details of the assault and any injuries. You may also choose to have your injuries photographed.
If it is not safe for you to return home, the Nurse can assist in finding a safe place.
You will receive information about additional support and counselling resources.
A follow-up appointment and phone call will be offered within three (3) days to check on your wellbeing and provide ongoing support.

Domestic violence - also known as intimate partner abuse, partner assault, or battering - refers to physical, sexual, emotional, or financial abuse that occurs within an intimate relationship, including marriage or long-term partnerships. It is one of the most common forms of gender-based violence and often involves ongoing patterns of control and abusive behaviour.

For individuals affected by partner assault or domestic violence, Victim Services provides emergency support, including:

medical care and treatment for injuries
documentation of injuries for court or legal purposes - this is YOUR choice
safety planning and risk assessment
referrals to shelters, counselling services, programs, and other community resources

Sexual assault is any unwanted sexual activity or contact, using force, coercion, or intimidation. It is a crime of violence that involves power, control, and/or the humiliation of another person. It is never about lust, passion, or desire.

Sexual assault can occur in any type of relationship - whether you are dating, married, living together, related, or just friends. Regardless of the circumstances, it is always a crime.

If you have recently experienced partner or sexual assault, you have control over the care and support you receive. You may choose whether or not to:

involve the police
have photographs taken of your injuries
participate in a follow-up phone call or appointment

All choices are respected and supported in a quiet, private space by a specially trained Nurse who is there to guide you safely and with care.