NALSC Restorative Justice Initiative is a pilot project funded by the Ministry of the Attorney General for Sexual Assault and Domestic Violence. The intent is to complete training in facilitating Restorative Justice Circle with an emphasis on sexual abuse and domestic violence cases. 

What is Domestic Violence

Domestic violence, also called domestic abuse or intimate partner violence, can be defined as a pattern of behaviour in any relationship that is used to gain or maintain power or control over your intimate partner. This included physical violence, mental, emotional, spiritual, financial and sexual abuse.
This can occur to anyone regardless of gender, age, race, economic or social status. Any kind of abuse or violence is never okay. There’s help for both the victim and the one causing harm (offender).

What is Sexual Assault?
Sexual assault is any unwanted act, action or activity with another individual that you did not receive their consent or permission.

What is Consent?
Consent (giving permission) is the most important, NO means NO. Absolutely, no one can give your consent on your behalf. If you give your consent, you can change your mind and the individual must stop. Types of sexual assault may include: sexual abuse, rape, incest, childhood sexual abuse, sexual harassment, degrading sexual imagery, indecent or sexualized exposure.

Lorilee Lessard
Sexual Assault and Domestic Violence Worker
llessard@nanlegal.on.ca
Brochure

 

Did you know?

The legal age of consent in Canada is 16 years old.

Exceptions:  Persons under 16 years can have consensual sex with someone close in age.

  • 12-13 year olds can consent to sexual activity with a partner who is less than two years older than they are
  • 14-15 year olds can consent to sexual activity with a partner who is less than five years older than they are

These exceptions only apply if the older person is not in a position of authority or trust and there is no exploitation (taking advantage) or dependency.

What can be done to help?

  • Take time to learn about the affects of sexual assault & domestic violence.
  •  Create a safe place for individuals to talk about their experiences. Be supportive, help them access services in their communities.
  • Raise awareness in schools, public, and society on the importance of accessing help for these issues. Reach out to RJ Staff for a presentation.
  • Avoid judgment. It can be difficult to watch a survivor struggle with the effects of sexual assault and domestic violence for an extended period of time. Avoid phrases that suggest they’re taking too long to recover.
  • Get to know your resources or reach out your supports in your community (Band Council, Nurses, Social Workers, Front Line Workers) or
  • 24/7 live answer at the toll-free telephone line at 1-844-NAN-HOPE (626-4673) or live web-chat and text support through nanhope.ca or Facebook Messenger.
  • Remember it’s our responsibility to create change and break cycles

Steps Through the Process

Referral to Program

  • Self, Court (Crown), Lawyers, NAPS, OPP, Band Council, Probation, Other Programs(internal/external)
  • Referral will be offered to Victim to NALSC Victim Witness Program

Intake

  • Appointment with RJ SADV Worker

Programming Offered

  • Indigenous Intimate Partner Violence Prevention Program (alternate to PAR)
  • Healing Circles with an Elder and supports
  • Referrals for healing such as counselling, traditional teachings/land base/cultural activities or ceremonies, access to Elders, anger management or anything to promote healing

Follow up & Exit Program

  • Follow up Circle and ongoing support –as required or needed
  • Summary Reports and updates to the referral source