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HELP LINE

New Alberta help line launched for sexual assault survivors

May 7, 2019 | 9:07 AM

EDMONTON- Sexual assault response centres across Alberta have banded together to launch a new service to help survivors of sexual violence begin healing.

Alberta’s One Line for Sexual Violence launched yesterday morning, with a simulcast announcement in 11 communities.

The phone and text line allows survivors of sexual violence to receive private and confidential information and support, and be referred to specialized services, such as clinicians and police.

The person calling will be connected with a helpline associate that will offer advice and information on resources of support that are available in the caller’s area.

One Line was inspired in part by the #IBelieveYou campaign and #MeToo movement which has dramatically increased demand for sexual assault services.

It is also based off a successful pilot project out of the Central Alberta Sexual Assault Centre in Red Deer that began back in 2016.

The new line is staffed between 9 a.m. and 9 p.m. every day, and there will be access to interpretation services in over 200 languages, including Cree, according to the Association of Alberta Sexual Assault Services.

During after-hours between 9 p.m. and 9 a.m., the Red Deer centre will take calls.

The number for the line is 1-866-403-8000.