Sexual Abuse Intervention Program

Sexual Abuse Intervention Program

                                                                                           Helping Children Heal

Counselling

• The SAIP Counsellor individualizes counselling to meet the needs of the child or youth.  Counselling may include activities, games, art or play therapy.
• All children and youth receive prevention education while in counselling.

Support for Parents and Caregivers

• This program provides support and education through individual sessions or workshops for parents and caregivers of children.

How to Access Services

• Services are available for children and youth up to the age of 19, and families dealing with child sexual abuse problems.
• Children and families may be referred through:

                     *Ministry of Children and Family Development

                     *Victim Services Programs

                     *School Counsellor

                     *Family Doctor

What To Do If Your Child Discloses Abuse

• Children may tell about abuse in a variety of ways
• Some children may be obvious or direct in their statements; others may let you know indirectly through their behaviors.

If you suspect child aabuse:

REMEMBER:

• It is not the child’s fault
• Stay calm.  Your reactions may affect the child
• Listen to the child
• Do not ask the child questions or attempt to “interview” the child (interviews should be done only by the police or child protection worker).

TELL THE CHILD

• I believe you
• I care about you
• I’m sorry this happened to you
• I’m glad you told me
• We need to tell an adult whose job it is to help children who have had this happen to them.