“You’ve made this process as easy as it could have been for her”

- Caregiver of Indigenous Survivor of sexual assault

As an agency, we recognize the need and duty to provide culturally appropriate services. Our Indigenous Victim Outreach Services Support Workers provide trauma-informed practice in the context of  emotional support, practical support, and appropriate referrals to those affected by intimate partner violence and sexual abuse/assault.

Additionally, an Indigenous Community Based Victim Service Worker is embedded in the Domestic Violence Unit, providing specialized trauma-informed support services to better assist the reporting process. The support worker provides court, documentation, and emotional support, so the survivors are aware of the process and know they have someone who is advocating on their behalf. This type of emotional support may look like accompaniment during a statement with the RCMP to ensure that our clients are being treated with the utmost dignity and respect.

Due to the intersectionality of discrimination, colonization, and gender, survivors have historically been oppressed when reporting. Our organization works closely with local Indigenous Community Partners such as Westbank First Nations and Kelowna Metis Association to provide the most appropriate and informed services, which provide a safe and inclusive place for individuals to tell their story and receive the support they deserve.

To speak to our team about these services, please contact us at (250)763-4613 or at info@efryokanagan.com