You Choose What's Next
If you have experienced sexual violence, there are support resources available on and off campus. You are not alone.
You are not required to file a complaint in order to seek support. You can access confidential assistance for a sexual violence incident that happened on-campus, off-campus, as a U of L student or staff or before you became part of the U of L community.
You can take time to consider your options
Whether an incident of sexual violence happened recently or long ago, you may feel that moving forward is an impossible task. You have options: there are many resources on campus and in the community to support you.
You do not have to face sexual violence alone. Consider talking to a friend, family member, co-worker or someone else you trust. It's okay to let people know what you need.
If you have been sexually assaulted within the last seven days, consider accessing the Sexual Assault Response Team (SART) at any emergency room in Lethbridge. A specially trained doctor can conduct a physical exam and, if you want, collect forensic evidence.
- Chinook Regional Hospital
- The Health Centre in the Student's Union Building provides primary health care to members of the U of L community: Health Centre
- Sexual & Reproduction Health Clinic (STI/Pregnancy)
Consider writing down what happened in as much detail as possible. Although this may be a painful and emotional task, your written account can be extremely helpful if you decide to have the incident investigated and pursue criminal prosecution.
Any U of L student can access free, confidential counselling at Counselling & Career Services. U of L Employees can access the Employee and Family Assistance Program.
There is no right way or wrong way to heal. Everyone's reaction to the experience and trauma of sexual violence is unique. Be gentle with yourself and know that healing from sexual violence can take time.
Consider using these resources to guide your self-care:
As well as seeking support from your family, friends and community professionals, there are support services available to you on campus and in Lethbridge and surrounding areas.
Campus Resources
Community Resources
24/7 emergency response
For immediate emergency response contact Security Services at 403-329-2345 or 911.
Parts of this section are adapted from the Grant MacEwan, Sexual Violence Prevention, Education, & Response Office.