Local agencies come together to support survivors of sexual crimes
The London Police Service (LPS) hosted a first-of-its-kind event to support survivors of sexual and sexually violent crimes.
But it was not just police officers taking part.
Leaders and volunteers with related agencies partnered with police to create ‘Hope Together: Supporting Survivors.’
The event ran until 6 p.m. Sunday at the Factory inside the Industrial Room.
It featured speakers from the police, the London Abused Women’s Centre and ANOVA.
Information tables outlining 10 related agencies are also set up.
“It’s so the survivors have the knowledge to know where to turn,” explained Det.-Sgt. Katherine Dann, who leads the LPS Sexual Assault and Child Abuse Section.
But Dann said it is not just survivors who could benefit from the event, as family members who support victims of sexual crime could also find resources.
“People, when they are in crisis, often reach out to family and friends. So, if one person has the knowledge, and they can help that person, then I think that is one of our goals.”
This past week, Human Trafficking Awareness Day was recognized nationwide.
Two presentations that focused on its prevalence and prevention were also highlights of the speakers' agenda.
“There are a lot of people who still think that these issues don’t exist in our city,” explained Jennifer Dunn, executive director of The London Abused Women’s Centre. “So, it’s really important to talk about it and let women know there are organizations available for support.”
Dann echoed her comments as she pointed to rising cases of sexual violence.
“Child exploitation is increasing. Human trafficking happens all the time in London since we’re on the 401. And, intimate partner violence is one of the largest things that we respond to,” she said.
But through new collaborative face-to-face public initiatives, including the Hope Together event, both leaders believe the disheartening trend may ease.
CTVNews.ca Top Stories
Johnny Gaudreau's widow, Meredith, remembers husband in heartfelt social media posts
The widow of Johnny Gaudreau called her husband 'the absolute best dad in the world' and thanked him for 'the best years of my life' in two Instagram posts shared Saturday.
18 drivers charged for filming vehicle crash site on Hwy. 401
Ontario Provincial Police were busy on Saturday morning issuing tickets to distracted drivers allegedly using their phones to film a serious crash on Highway 401 in eastern Ontario.
Man charged after alleged 'indecent act' in family shower area at Toronto pool
A 35-year-old Toronto man is facing charges after allegedly 'committing an indecent act' in the family shower area of a public pool.
Orangutan swung in 'cartwheel-like motion' before climbing down tower to escape: Toronto Zoo
The Toronto Zoo says it has learned how one of its orangutans escaped from its enclosure earlier this week.
More people than ever are eating alone at restaurants. This is why
The stigma of single dining has faded as more people live alone than ever before. Today, more people are making reservations for one.
A Norwegian princess marries an American self-styled shaman in front of a star-studded audience
Social media influencers, reality stars and TV personalities were among the guests as the Norwegian king's eldest child, Princess Martha Louise, married an American self-professed shaman on Saturday in a wedding ceremony following three days of festivities.
Rapper Fatman Scoop dies at 53 after collapsing on stage in Connecticut
Fatman Scoop, the rapper who topped charts in Europe with 'Be Faithful' in the early 2000s and later lent his distinctive voice and ebullient vibe to hits by such artists as Missy Elliott and Ciara, died after collapsing on stage at a show in Connecticut, according to officials and his family.
Driver clocked at 175 km/hr claims water bottle rolled under gas pedal
An OPP officer clocked a man from Nottawasaga travelling on Highway 401 at 175 kilometres per hour on Friday.
As interest rates trend down, could housing get more affordable?
Forecasters are expecting further Bank of Canada interest rate cuts, but does that mean it's a good time to buy or sell a home? Real estate analyst Jason Mercer shares his predictions with CTV Your Morning.