The Sexual Violence Support Program provides confidential and non-judgmental supports to survivors of any form of sexual violence. As a client-centred program, the clients define what sexual violence is to them, and identify their needs and what types of services they want to access. Some examples of types of sexual violence include: pressuring/convincing, sexual assault, childhood sexual abuse, sexual harassment, online sexual violence and more. Support can take the form of emotional support, supportive counselling or support groups, as well as referrals to other services, information-sharing and problem-solving. Support can also take the form of addressing issues or challenges clients may be experiencing, such as housing support, legal support, immigration support, shelter support and more. Support can be provided in person or remotely, such as by telephone, email, video or other platforms.
The role of Embrave’s Anti-Black Racism Sexual Violence Counsellor and Advocate is to address the diverse and culturally relevant needs of Black survivors. The counsellor/advocate supports survivors of violence using intersectional and anti-Black racism frameworks, which acknowledge that survivor experiences are directly related to the layering identities they hold. Black people experience violence differently than those who are not Black because of systemic and individual barriers which deny access to support, or re-traumatize folks through interaction with institutions such as police, healthcare, and welfare. This position is meant to empower Black survivors in gaining access to supports as they work with a counsellor they can identify with.
The following persons are eligible to receive supports through the Sexual Violence Support Program:
- All women and two-spirit, genderqueer, trans and non-binary people who are 16 years of age and older, with or without dependents, and who are currently experiencing, have experienced or are at risk of experiencing any form violence;
- Services can be provided to people regardless of their geographical location.
