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By Alison Sandstrom

Champions for Children

‘It’s easier to think it doesn’t happen’: education campaign focuses on child sexual abuse

May 19, 2021 | 5:00 PM

The Prince Albert Sexual Assault Centre is joining with similar organizations across the province to recognize Sexual Violence Awareness week from May 17 to May 21.

This year’s focus is child sexual abuse. The campaign, dubbed “Champions for Children,” will take place virtually on the centre’s Facebook and Instagram pages.

In a media release, the P.A. Sexual Assault Centre said the emphasis will be on “creating a culture of belief around child sexual abuse in Saskatchewan and role community caregivers play in identifying and preventing abuse.”

P.A. Mobile Crisis executive director Vicki Stewart told paNOW it’s a topic people often don’t want to talk about.

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“It’s easier to think it doesn’t happen than to think ‘how do you stop it,'” Stewart said.

The campaign is especially timely because, as Stewart explained, children are at increased risk during the pandemic. People who might normally spot signs of abuse—like teachers or coaches—aren’t in regular contact with kids

“We’re not going to school, we’re not going to sports, we’re not doing any activities, so these children are just at home,” said Stewart.

Stewart emphasized that if anyone suspects a child is being abused, they have a legal duty to report it by contacting the Ministry of Social Services, P.A. Mobile Crisis or police.

“Our campaign is focused on educating caregivers—not just parents but also friends, neighbours, daycare providers, coaches and more—about the realities of child sexual abuse and how to create safe spaces with a culture of belief when child sexual abuse is evident or disclosed by a child in their care,” said Kerrie Isaac, Executive Director at Sexual Assualt Services of Saskatchewan, in a media release.

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alison.sandstrom@pattisonmedia.com

On Twitter: @alisandstrom