Saskatchewan Sexual Violence Surveys Launched

RESEARCH PURPOSE

The aim of the research is to gain a better understanding of the existing strengths and potential gaps in service provision as it relates to sexual violence across the province of Saskatchewan.

The research findings will be presented to the Saskatchewan Sexual Violence Action Plan Advisory Committee. This committee will develop and implement a province-wide sexual violence action plan that is comprehensive, coordinates across all professional sectors and levels of government, and reflects the needs of Saskatchewan people.

METHODOLOGY

1. Surveys

• Sexual Assault Survivors Survey

This survey is for individuals above the age of 18 years old, who have experienced sexual violence and are willing to share their experience.

• Secondary Survivors of Sexual Assault Survey

This survey is for individuals above the age of 18 years old, who have supported a survivor in their personal lives. Examples include parents, spouses, friends etc.

• Sexual Assault Service Providers Survey

This survey is for front-line service providers who support sexual assault survivors in a professional capacity. Examples include victim services, police services, medical services etc.

The surveys will be disseminated online through SASS website, social media and through our partner organizations ‘websites. Our surveys are anonymous and confidential. Our ten member agencies will also have paper copies for individuals who wish to complete the survey on paper. Paper surveys will be issued with an envelope and pre-paid postage for participants to mail directly to SASS.

2. Interviews

We will conduct one-on-one interviews with sexual assault survivors and secondary survivors of sexual assault.  The interview questions will be the same as the survey questions. The participants will be recruited by our member agencies. Counsellors will recruit participants who are further along in their healing journey to reduce the risk of re-traumatization. The surveys’ questions have been screened by several independent agencies to ensure the language used in the surveys is appropriate and ethical.

3. Focus Groups

We will conduct focus communities across the province with the local service providers. We will be asking the following four questions:

• Describe sexual violence in your community.
• What is working to address sexual violence in your community?
• What is not working to address sexual violence in your community?
• What is needed to address sexual violence and what are the gaps?

To participate in our online survey, enter the link below to your browser:

To participate in the focus group or interviews, please speak to a counsellor or book an appointment

at the Saskatoon Sexual Assault & Information Centre:

Office Hours

Monday – Friday, 9:00 – 5:00 pm: 306-244-2294

(Closed for lunch 12:00 pm -1:00 pm)

After Hours Crisis Line Support: 306-244-2224