Sexual Assault and Violence

Forensic nurses will benefit from a new simulation training program developed by Island Health. 

On National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence against Women we remember those lives lost, and those among us now who continue to face violence, harassment and discrimination because of their gender identity and expression.

People living in remote North Island communities now have access to Forensic Nurse Examiner (FNE) services thanks to innovative thinking and the creative use of existing virtual care technology by Island Health’s Virtual Care and Forensic Nurse Examiner teams.  

“Forensic nurses provide essential care and treatment for survivors of sexual assault,” said Grace Lore, Parliamentary Secretary for Gender Equity. “This innovative strategy is critical to ensure we have the health care professionals we need and that survivors can access the care they need." 

Aimee Falkenberg is quite simply unstoppable, she has made it her life’s work to bring down barriers faced by survivors of violence.

Ladysmith – Survivors of sexual assault or domestic violence in Ladysmith can now access medical care, sexual assault forensic examinations (SAFE), and other supports they may need closer to home.

Island-wide – Island Health is launching a social media campaign to encourage people who have been the victim of a sexual assault to seek medical care from a Forensic Nurse Examiner, at all Emergency Departments or through a primary health care provider. According to Statistics Canada sexual assault is the most underreported violent crime in Canada*. Regardless of whether people choose to report the crime, they should still receive confidential medical help.

Vancouver Island - The Nanaimo Forensic Nurse Examiner program received 70 pre-packed patient comfort kits from a group of six friends who are putting compassion into action. After researching different community services they learned about the Forensic Nursing program, which provides specialized medical care for all genders and ages who are seeking medical forensic care. “It was a perfect fit for our cause,” said Brooke Nikirk, one of the donors.