Sexual Assault - Lake of the Woods District Hospital

Sexual Assault/Partner Abuse/SAFEKIDS Program

Sexual Assault and Domestic Violence (SA/DV) Program

At Lake of the Woods District Hospital, the Sexual Assault and Domestic Violence (SA/DV) Program offers confidential, compassionate, and trauma-informed care for survivors of sexual assault, domestic or intimate partner violence, and human trafficking. Our services are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. For acute care, please present to the Emergency Department and ask to speak with an SA/DV nurse.

Our Approach

We focus on a patient-centered, trauma-informed approach that respects your autonomy. We are here to support your choices, and our goal is to help you make the decisions that are best for your situation.

The Sexual Assault and Domestic Violence Clinic is open Monday to Friday 8:30am-4:30pm. Phone: 807-468-9861 ext. 2511. Outside of clinic hours, please go to the Emergency Department for immediate care.

Services We Offer

Medical Treatment

If you wish to receive medical care, please present to the Emergency Department (ED) as soon as possible. The ED staff will treat any injuries requiring urgent medical attention.

Some treatment options are available within 12 days of the assault or abuse. You can choose any or all of the following:

Examination, assessment, treatment, and documentation of injuries
Pregnancy testing and emergency contraception
Testing and treatment for sexually transmitted infections (e.g., Gonorrhea, Chlamydia, HIV, Hepatitis B, etc.)
Risk assessment and safety planning
Referral to community agencies for additional support
Follow-up care, including re-testing, medication checks, and overall well-being

Forensic Evidence Collection and Photography

If you are thinking about involving the police, forensic evidence can be collected within 12 days of the assault.

Sexual Assault Evidence Kit (SAEK)

Collects evidence from your body and clothing worn during or immediately after the assault.

To preserve evidence, avoid showering, bathing, or changing clothes before coming to the hospital as this could result in the loss of evidence.

If you have changed, bring the clothes worn during and after the incident in a paper bag (if possible)

Photography

Photographs and body diagrams may be used to document any injuries or areas of pain.
Photos can be taken immediately or up to 72 hours later to track changes as injuries evolve.

Please note, evidence can be collected without police involvement and securely stored up to 12 months while you decide your next steps.

If the assault/abuse occurred more than 12 days ago

You can still receive compassionate care and support. Please contact the SA/DV Program during weekday hours to speak with one of our nurses to talk about your options. Available options may include:

Testing and treatment for sexually transmitted infections
Emotional support and counselling referrals
Connections to community services
The option to report the incident to police at any time

Children (12 years and under)

The plan of care for children will be determined based on the timing of the assault and the information gathered. Children may be referred to the nearest Children’s Hospital for specialized care.

All suspected child abuse is legally required to be reported to child protective services.

Resources

Sexual Assault and Domestic Violence Program Pamphlets

Learn more about SADV services across Ontario.

Additional Information

For more information about your health care options, click here.

For definitions of assault, abuse and consent, click here.

Crisis Numbers (24/7)