RESOURCES & INFORMATION
resources
Grande Prairie Support
Pace Community Support, Sexual Assault, and Trauma Centre provides a variety of resources, supports, and services in the Grande Prairie community & area, including counseling services for those impacted by sexual violence, crisis intervention, family support, public education and training. Pace believes that anyone dealing with sexual assault, sexual abuse, crisis or trauma has the right to access skilled, caring and professional supports and services.
Help outside of Grande Prairie
Located in the town of High Level, The Bison Child & Youth Advocacy Centre opened in 2021 and is the ninth Child Advocacy Centre in the province of Alberta. The Bison Centre serves children and youth (under 18) who have experienced sexual, physical or psychological abuse, exploitation, and/or neglect. They also work with those who have witnessed other types of trauma or violence.
Zebra Child Protection Centre is a place where a child can feel safe and protected. Examples are everywhere; from the playroom, children’s art and homemade blankets, each element of our Centre is there for a reason – to make kids comfortable. First and foremost, it is a strong support network for children, which encourages them to share their story on their own terms.
The Luna Child and Youth Advocacy Centre demonstrates every day what’s possible when professionals, corporate champions, community members and government work together to support children, youth and families impacted by child physical and sexual abuse, and to put an end to abuse.
ABUSE REPORTING INFORMATION
When a child or youth discloses abuse, or you suspect that something may have happened to a child, use the following guide to help you…
Making a Report is the First Step
The information provided by the caller will be assessed to determine if further investigation is required. Only the RCMP or Child Family Services can make a referral to the Caribou Child and Youth Centre.
In Alberta – Under the Child, Youth and Family Enhancement Act any person who has “reasonable and probable grounds” to believe that a child is being harmed, has an obligation to report it to the proper authorities.
In Grande Prairie: To report, call Child and Family Services Authority at 780-538-5102 OR the RCMP at 780-830-5701
COMMUNITY RESOURCE LINKS
Here is a list of community resources to assist you with questions you may have, or provide the support you may require.
To report online situations where children or young people are being sexually abused or exploited, contact the Cybertip.ca tip line. Canada’s national tip line receives information from the public about child pornography, luring, child sex tourism and child prostitution. Cybertip also provides information, referrals, and other resources to help Canadians keep their children safe while on the Internet.
Being Victimized - INFORMATION
How might a child or youth victims be affected?
Being victimized can shatter a young person’s view of the world as a safe place. Children and youth may be affected by crime in many ways, emotionally and physically.
At different development stages, children may express their emotions differently.
Responses may include:
- Withdrawing
- Having stomach aches
- Sleep disruptions
- Being more clingy
- Exhibiting anxiety and depression
- They might deny there is anything wrong.
- You may also see changes in their behaviors, and “acting out” when they find it hard to express their feelings.
Parents and family can also be affected by a crime
It is important that families get the support they need. If you are affected by a crime, even if not directly, you can access the support of the Caribou Child & Youth Centre.
Parents, caregivers, and other family members can also experience significant emotions. These can include ANGER, shock, disbelief, shame, blame and fear of further harm. Siblings might be confused or become overprotective.
How can you support a child who has been a victim of a crime?
Parents and caregivers can be a great source of support to their child after a crime.
- Assure your child that he or she did the right thing in telling someone.
- React calmly.
- Let your child know that you are there to listen.
- Reassure your child that what happened is not his or her fault.
- Accept that your child may “act out” but set limits.
- Understand your own feelings and take care of yourself.
- Discuss with your child any steps to take.
- Watch for signs that your child needs additional support or help.
- The journey may be long – Seek supports for your child and yourself.