Support resources for sexual violence
This page provides a variety of support resources for people directly or indirectly affected by sexual violence, as well as for those seeking information or guidance.
You can select the profile that best matches your situation, explore resources by theme, or use the map to locate services available near you.
I have experienced sexual violence or want to support a survivor
University, CEGEP and college
Crime Victims Assistance Centre (CAVAC)
CAVAC provides frontline services to anyone who has been the victim of a criminal act, as well as to their loved ones and witnesses. Support is available whether or not the perpetrator has been identified, arrested, prosecuted or found guilty.
Quebec Coalition of Sexual Assault Help Centres (RQCALACS)
RQCALACS brings together organizations across Québec that support women who have experienced sexual violence through direct services for survivors and their loved ones.
Sexual Violence Helpline
1 888 933-9007
The Sexual Violence Helpline responds to requests made by anyone affected by sexual violence—survivors, loved ones or professionals—through a listening and referral service that is available 24/7.
Resource and Intervention Center for Sexually Abused Men and Their Loved Ones (CRIPHASE)
514 529-5567
info@criphase.org
CRIPHASE supports men who have experienced sexual abuse, helping them reclaim a sense of control over their lives. Services include psychosocial support, information, awareness activities, peer exchanges and training for professionals.
Interligne
1 888 505-1010 (call or text)
Interligne provides support to LGBTQ+ people with 24/7 phone, text, and online chat service availability provided by trained intervention professionals.
Sexual Assault Centres (Centres VAS)
Sexual Assault Centres provide medical, psychosocial and forensic services to people who have experienced sexual assault, whether or not they wish to file a complaint. They are generally located in hospitals and are accessible 24/7.
I work in a higher education institution and have experienced sexual violence
Help and Information Center on Harassment in the Workplace (GAIHST)
514-526-0789
info@gaihst.qc.ca
GAIHST supports individuals who have experienced sexual and/or psychological harassment in the workplace. Their services include support and counselling, complaint assistance, educational activities and community meetings.
University, CEGEP and college
Juripop
Juripop offers free legal information and support specifically for people who have experienced sexual harassment in the workplace.
I am looking for legal support
Montreal YWCA Legal Information Clinic
514 866-9941, ext. 101
The Montreal YWCA provides individual, low-cost legal consultations as well a free legal information, support and referral service, "L'EnDroit Communautaire", for anyone seeking information about their rights or guidance in a legal process.
Juripop
1-855-587-4767
info@juripop.org
Juripop provides creative, rigorous and accessible legal services so that everyone can assert their rights. Services include affordable legal support related to workplace violence, domestic violence and sexual violence.
Domestic and Sexual Violence Information Line of the Director of Criminal and Penal Prosecutions (DPCP)
1 855 643-4085
Free and confidential service allowing victims to speak with a prosecutor from the DPCP who is specially trained to respond empathetically to concerns related to violence. The service provides reliable information about the judicial process, filing a police complaint, and authorizing a prosecution.
Rebâtir
1-833-732-2847
projet@rebatir.ca
Free confidential legal consultations for people who have experienced sexual violence or domestic violence.
Équijustice
1-877-204-0250
Équijustice offers restorative justice and social mediation services for people who wish to explore alternatives or complements to the judicial system in an approach that respects their rights and dignity. These processes are voluntary and centred on the needs of those involved.
I want to file a complaint
Filing a police complaint and the criminal justice process
If you have experienced sexual violence, the decision to file a complaint is yours. There is no time limit to do so, and legal recourse is available. Survivors of sexual violence often need time before reporting their aggressor. When they decide to do so, two legal avenues exist: criminal prosecution and civil action. You can file a complaint in person at a police station. You can also contact your local police station to discuss the possibility of meeting with a community police officer. The procedure is generally similar across police stations. Support organizations can also provide information and accompany you throughout the legal process. Consult the profiles “I am looking for legal support” and/or “I have experienced sexual violence or want to support a survivor” to learn more about the available resources.
University, CEGEP and college
Under Law P-22.1, higher education institutions must establish procedures for receiving and handling complaints related to sexual violence, as well as measures to ensure the confidentiality of reports. If the events concern your institution or someone affiliated with it, you can contact the designated office or resource person responsible for sexual violence cases to learn about the available options. These services can explain the internal procedure and accompany you if needed.