Calgary Sexual Assault Response Team (CSART)
A Confidential Non-Judging Way to get Help after a Sexual Assault
The 24-hour Calgary Sexual Assault Response Team (CSART) is a collaborative partnership between CCASA, Alberta Health Services – Calgary Region, Calgary Police Service, area RCMP, and the Crown Prosecutor’s office. This crisis response team provides specialized care to individuals who have been sexually assaulted within the past 96 hours. The service is available through the Sheldon Chumir and the Alberta Children’s Hospital. The team will travel to other hospitals when required.
Note: If more than 96 hours have passed since the sexual assault, there are other options for medical attention available, please contact the CCASA support and information line at 403-237-5888 for more information.
After a sexual assault, it is essential to receive immediate medical attention due to the possibility of injury, pregnancy or sexually transmitted infections. If you choose to go to the Sheldon Chumir Hospital, the following CSART professionals will see you:
- A female doctor and nurse trained in sexual assault care will examine and treat you for injuries, provide you with STI and pregnancy testing, and follow up with results. They will also collect forensic evidence if you choose to report to the police or collect forensic evidence and have it stored for up to a year if you choose the Third Option.
You may also choose to speak with:
- A crisis counsellor from Calgary Communities Against Sexual Abuse who will provide you with information about common reactions to sexual assault and recovery, assess your needs, inform you of reporting options, provide you with referrals, and follow up with you if you choose.
- Police officers from the Calgary Police Service, the RCMP, or Tribal Police, (depending on where the assault occurred) who will take a statement from you and answer your questions regarding the investigation process.
All CSART team members are trained in providing sexual assault care and work together in a manner to make your experience at the hospital safe, respectful and as dignified and positive as possible under the circumstances.
