Taking Charge:
Young Women, Alcohol & Sexual Assault

In a recent survey, professionals who work with young women said alcohol was involved in 80% of disclosed sexual assault.

Parent Action on Drugs talked to over 200 young women about sexual assault and alcohol. Whether they had been sexually assaulted or not, most girls said they would not come forward because…

• They would feel ashamed and humiliated.
• They would feel that they let it happen.
• If they had said yes at any time, then the guy would not be responsible.
• Friends would cut them out.
• There could be reprisals from the boy.
• They would never be forgiven by their parents.

Based on the information from young women and professionals, this tool kit was developed for health professionals to support and inform young women. Available in English and French, the Tool Kit fits into a variety of settings and curriculum programs and contains four parts:

1. A Guide to the Taking Charge project in 4 sections:

• The Taking Charge Project: Rationale, Process, Key Findings and Frequently Asked Questions
• Responding to Disclosure
• Educational Activities
• Supporting Parental Involvement (parent information brochure included)

2. A CD of handouts and resources.

3. A poster to encourage young women to think about the subject and talk about it with peers and adults they trust.

4. Keychains with the logo to hang on backpacks, keys, or cell phones.

Why does it work?

It works because it was directed and developed by an Advisory of young women and a partnership of health and education professionals.

It works because it increases professionals’ opportunity and ability to talk to young women and their parents about this difficult subject.

And it works because it provides young women with the support they need to take charge of the situation.

This project is funded by the Ministry of the Attorney General, Ontario Victim Services Secretariat.

For an order form for the Taking Charge Guide and resources, click here, or click here to contact PAD for more information.

Young Women, Alcohol & Sexual Assault: Why Mothers are the last to know This brochure helps mothers understand the facts about alcohol and sexual assault in order to open up a discussion on the topic with their daughters.(aussi disponible en français)

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