REGINA - The Sexual Assault Services of Saskatchewan (SASS) is asking the next government to lead Saskatchewan to ensure sexual violence aid is prioritized.
On Tuesday, SASS released their numbers of sexual violence among Canadian provinces. Their findings reported Saskatchewan is the second-highest province for sexual violence, 39 per cent more than Alberta and 48 per cent higher than British Columbia.
Executive director at SASS, Kerrie Isaac, said sexual assault presents a lingering economic issue. “It is a known risk factor for other costly social issues such as addictions, mental illness, homelessness, and family violence. Ignoring the long-term costs of sexual violence is bad business for our province.”
Despite Saskatchewan and the federal government allocating $40.6 million over four years to address gender-based violence, less than $5 million of that funding has gone directly to stop sexual violence, according to SASS.
Isaac said their organization is concerned about the lack of funding and targeted sexual assault cases will continue provincial-wide unless change is made.
SASS has outlined three areas where change is needed:
The first is comprehensive trauma-informed counselling services across Saskatchewan. SASS points out survivors of sexual assault identify that counselling is needed to ensure they can move on from trauma suffered.
The second is education for Saskatchewan students on recognizing sexual abuse and getting help. In 2023, the Saskatchewan Ministry of Education removed the ability for SASS members to provide education in public schools. The organization feels this has put students at risk of not being aware of sexual abuse cases.
The third is access to specialized medical care for survivors in rural and remote communities. SASS wants hospitals to have referrals and follow-up support so people can cope with their past experiences.
Isaac noted there is an opportunity to change sexual violence in the province, and investing in the matter is better than doing nothing to support victims.
