Assault Understanding Assault
Assault is when someone uses or threatens physical force against another person without consent. It can happen between strangers, acquaintances, or in personal relationships. Assault can range from a shove or slap to serious physical injury and can include:
- Physical attacks
- Threats with a weapon
- Group assaults
- Assaults during another crime, like robbery
All assaults—whether minor or severe—can have lasting physical and emotional effects on survivors.
How Victim Services Can Help
Victim Services organizations are here to support survivors of assault through every stage of recovery.
Support may include:
- Crisis intervention and emotional support
- Safety planning and navigating police involvement
- Help accessing medical care or emergency housing
- Referrals to trauma counselling or mental health services
- Support throughout court processes, including referrals to the Victim/Witness Assistance Program (VWAP)
- Assistance with VQRP+ for emergency expenses (e.g., security upgrades, transportation, basic needs)
Whether the assault occurred recently or in the past, services are survivor-centered and confidential.
