Frequently Asked Questions
Question and Answer
Yes, Supporting Survivors of Sexual Violence (https://nscs.learnridge.com/) is a free, online, Nova Scotian based program that helps give people the tools to support survivors.
A forensic examination is the collection of evidence after a sexual assault. In the media they are often called rape kits. A forensic examination includes collection of clothes, doing a head to toe physical exam and may include taking photos of any injuries. Any and all parts of a forensic examination are optional. It is suggested that survivors try not to shower, bathe, douche, use the washroom, change clothes, eat/drink, or clean teeth, following the assault until the exam is completed.
No, no one can make you do anything you don’t want to do. It is your choice and only your choice.
You can get a forensic examination done and not have it processed right away. These kits are held and frozen for six (6) months, and at any time you can choose to process it. These kits can be done up to seven days after an assault, but the sooner one is done after an assault the more forensic evidence can be collected.