SARAH

Sexual Assault Recovery and Healing

About SARAH

SARAH support continues through the COVID-19 pandemic. Advocates are still available 24/7 but support will be offered over the phone and follow-up will be via phone, text, or email.

The SARAH program provides sexual assault crisis intervention services such as

  • hospital accompaniment and support
  • follow-up support
  • referrals to regional service providers

SARAH programs are operating 24/7 out of the following sites:

  • Selkirk Regional Health Centre
  • Pinawa Hospital
  • Pine Falls Health Complex
  • Beausejour Hospital

How can the SARAH program worker support the sexual assault survivor?

It isn’t easy finding emotional support following a sexual assault. It is best to chose someone (family, friend, crisis worker) who can provide the following: confidentiality, unconditional support for decisions, non-judgmental attitude (this was not your fault), dependable and available when needed, advocate with police, social workers, forensic examiners, lawyers.

The SARAH program worker can support the sexual assault survivor by providing the following services:

  • Emotional support for the survivor and secondary victims of sexual assault. A secondary victim may be a family member, partner, loved one, friend or acquaintance.
  • Options regarding police and medical involvement with emphasis on the right of the survivor to make his/her own choices
  • Hospital accompaniment and support
  • Forensic examination explanation
  • Support through police statement taking
  • Information on sexual assault trauma and what to expect physically and emotionally following an assault
  • Information on the SARAH program and referrals to other organizations providing follow-up support
  • Report to C.F.S. when children are at risk or need support
  • Clothing to leave the hospital following a forensic examination if clothing was seized for evidence
  • Personal grooming items to use before leaving the hospital
  • Follow-up contact to ensure the survivor’s well-being and safety

The SARAH Program volunteer offers a victim of sexualized violence support, information and referrals to help with the recovery process. We are currently looking for new volunteers to join our SARAH Program to support program centres on the west side of the region (Selkirk and Beausejour) and the east side (Pinawa and Pine Falls). You are invited to explore this volunteer opportunity if you live within 45 minutes of our major centres in Selkirk and Pine Falls.

All of our SARAH Workers receive 40 hours of training and attend monthly inservices.

The application process involves completing an application form, attending an in-person interview and providing two reference checks. The applicant must also have a valid driver’s license, access to a reliable vehicle, and be willing to travel in eastern Manitoba. A current Criminal Records Check/Vulnerable Sector Check (RCMP) must be presented prior to the start of training. Applicants will also be required to complete applications for a Child Abuse Registry Check and an Adult Abuse Registry Check.

To find out more about becoming a SARAH Program volunteer

Call 1-204-753-5353