Experiencing sexual assault or intimate partner violence is deeply traumatic, but no one has to face it alone. At Health Sciences Centre (HSC) Winnipeg, the Sexual Assault/Intimate Partner Violence Program (SA/IPV) offers specialized, compassionate care 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Whether you’ve experienced sexual assault or physical abuse by a partner, friend, acquaintance, or stranger, this program is here to help, without judgment and at your pace.
Survivors First
HSC’s SA/IPV Program is composed of a team of specially trained nurses who are committed to providing trauma-informed, survivor-centred care for anyone aged 14 and older, of any gender. If the person seeking care is under 14, they will be supported by expert physicians through the Child Protection Centre (CPC).
What sets this program apart is its focus on choices, empowerment, and safety. Survivors can decide whether to undergo a medical exam, report the incident to police, receive preventive medications, or be connected to counselling services and community supports. The team will guide you through every step, so you can make the decisions that feel right for you.
Services Offered
The SA/IPV Program offers a comprehensive and respectful care approach that includes:
- Medical assessment and physical examination
- Testing and treatment for sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
- Pregnancy testing and emergency contraception
- Collection of forensic evidence (if desired)
- Safety planning
- Referrals to counselling and community support
- Culturally and spiritually sensitive care
All services are offered in a private, safe, and confidential environment within the HSC Emergency Department.
Understanding Sexual Assault and Intimate Partner Violence
Sexual assault is a form of violence that can include anything from unwanted sexual touching or kissing to forced intercourse. It can happen whether the survivor is conscious, asleep, or under the influence—and the perpetrator could be anyone: a partner, friend, family member, acquaintance, or stranger.
Intimate Partner Violence (IPV), also referred to as domestic violence, occurs when one partner attempts to control or harm the other through physical, sexual, emotional, psychological, or financial abuse. IPV can happen in all types of relationships, regardless of gender, age, or background.
Both sexual assault and IPV are acts of violence. Survivors deserve care, support, and healing.
What to Expect at the Hospital
If you go to HSC’s Emergency Department, simply ask to speak with the SA/IPV nurse on duty. The team will:
- Ensure your immediate safety and medical needs are met
- Offer a private, comfortable space for care and examination
- Give you the option to have a support person present
- Offer a forensic exam and evidence collection if desired
- Respect your choices regarding police involvement
- Provide referrals to follow-up and community support services
From the moment you arrive to the moment you leave, your care team will prioritize your well-being, safety, and dignity.
Accessing Services
Survivors in Winnipeg can access the SA/IPV Program in two main ways:
- Visit the Health Sciences Centre Emergency Department (24/7)
- Contact or visit Klinic Community Health Centre during operating hours
To speak with a forensic nurse, call 204-787-2071 and ask for the SA/IPV nurse on duty.
You Are Not Alone
Whether the assault happened days ago or just hours ago, you deserve care. You deserve to be believed, supported, and treated with compassion. The SA/IPV Program at HSC Winnipeg is here to provide just that—every hour, every day.
Learn more: https://hsc.mb.ca/adults/sexual-assault-intimate-partner-violence-program-sa-ipv/
