Sexual Abuse Intervention Prevention (SAIP)
This program is designed for children and youth ages 5-19 who have been sexually abused, where sexual abuse is suspected or children under 12 with sexually intrusive behaviors. We work with both children and their families to recover from the trauma of sexual abuse, to expand their ability to communicate verbally and non-verbally, and to realize their potential as valuable members of the community.
What we do:
- Each individual has the key to their own healing if we can support and encourage healthy development physically, intellectually, emotionally, & spiritually.
- We encourage healthy parent – child attachment.
- Teaches the child and/or caregiver to develop an understanding of healthy sexuality.
- Work to help alleviate trauma related symptoms
- We help educate about prevention and early detection of sexual abuse.
- Counsellors liaise with community members as part of Integrated Case Management.
- We support families in understanding the impact of sexual abuse on the child.
- Services are provided on a non-discriminatory basis and are sensitive and responsive to cultural differences.
- All staff and practicum students are experienced in providing sexual abuse or related treatment services to children.
What is sexual abuse?
Sexual abuse means any sexual exploitation of a child whether consensual or not. It includes touching of a sexual nature and sexual intercourse, and may include any behavior of a sexual nature toward a child by an older or more advantaged person.
It is mandatory in British Columbia that any person who believes that a child may be abused or neglected must report the incident to the Ministry for Children and Family Development.
Who we work with
Children and youth under 19 can be referred to the program in many ways. These include:
- Self referral
- Physicians
- Family
- Community based agencies/supports
- Victim Services
- Vancouver Island Health Authority
- Local police
- Ministry for Children & Family Development