Early this year, EVA BC staff travelled across the province to deliver regional training as part of the launch of the new Sexual Assault Services (SAS) programs. These two-day in-person sessions offered an opportunity for SAS workers to gather, network and learn within their regions. A total of 54 participants attended the four regional trainings, representing nearly three-quarters of the organizations that hold SAS programs.
“It was such an incredible opportunity to get to know workers from across the province, and to support them in building relationships with each other,” shared facilitator Sarah Wright, Manager of Training and Projects. “The participants showed up with such generosity for one another, sharing knowledge and tools throughout the two days to better meet the needs of the survivors in their regions.”
As part of the training, EVA BC is excited to announce the release of the Supporting Survivors of Sexual Violence handbook, now available online. This handbook replaces the previous Sexual Assault Support Worker Handbook, last updated in 2016, and reflects current trauma-informed and survivor-centred approaches, and best practices in supporting survivors across systems. EVA BC is grateful for the input that has informed this handbook including from SAS workers, the Ministry of Public Safety and Solicitor General (MPSSG), Ministry of the Attorney General, and Legal Aid BC. We gratefully acknowledge support from MPSSG to update the handbook and to develop and deliver new training for frontline anti-violence workers who support survivors.
