As a way to ease trauma, victims of sexual assault will no longer have to venture to London police headquarters to report attacks.
A dedicated interview room has been created at the Regional Sexual Assault and Domestic Violence Treatment Program (RSADVTP) at St. Joseph’s Health Care London for sexual assault victims who want to provide a statement to police.
“It is an effort to minimize trauma by limiting the number of times a victim has to recount their story. All can be done in one place, if that is what the victim wishes,” said Detective Sergeant Dave Poustie of the police sexual assault and child abuse section.
The new space allows investigators to come directly to victims in a place where the individual may be more comfortable, according to Poustie. The room is equipped with technology to allow for on-camera interviews between victims and police which can help launch an investigation into the assault faster.
“Those coming to our program are often very exhausted and stressed by their ordeal,” said Cassandra Fisher, coordinator of the RSADVTP. “Being able to provide a statement to police after receiving care without having to leave our program is truly a patient-centred approach. They have the choice of receiving care, counselling, involving police, all three, or any combination of those options.”
The RSADVP has been described as a "comforting and calm setting" that serves London, Oxford, Elgin, Huron-Perth, and Middlesex. It provides round-the-clock care, seven days a week to women, children, and men who have experienced sexual assault, sexual abuse, and domestic violence. The partnership between the program and the police human trafficking unit began in March 2017 to provide initial examination, testing, and medical and psychological care for victims rescued by police.
As part of Sexual Assault Awareness Month, anyone wanting to see the new interview room or learn more about the RSADVTP's services can attend an open house on Thursday from 2pm to 5pm. The RSADVTP is located in St. Joseph’s Health Care, Zone B, Level 0, Room B0-644.
