Burlington MPP tours Nina’s Place at Joseph Brant Hospital on day of remembrance
Published December 6, 2021 at 4:39 pm
Nina’s Place, Halton Region’s sexual assault and domestic violence centre, is marking 20 years of providing survivor-centred care and services for adults, youth, and children in Burlington and surrounding communities.
Located inside Burlington’s Joseph Brant Hospital, Nina’s Place has a team of specialized nurses, physicians, and social workers who provide care and support in a safe, private, and quiet environment.
First opening its doors on December 6, 2001, Nina’s Place is named in memory of Nina de Villiers, a 19-year-old Burlington resident who was abducted and killed in 1991 by a man with a history of violence against women.
Earlier today (Dec. 6), Jane McKenna, Associate Minister of Children and Women’s Issues and MPP for Burlington, toured Nina’s Place with JBH President and CEO Eric Vandewall and charge nurse Linda Rhodes.
“On the National Day of Remembrance of Action on Violence Against Women, it is so important to raise awareness of these issues and the supports that are available in our communities,” said McKenna.
“We are so fortunate to have this resource in Burlington and I am grateful for the opportunity to come and see the important work being done here.”
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Vandewall touted the benefits of the centre.
“Nina’s Place ensures survivors get the care and help they need and feel safe and empowered by an approach that is centred around their wishes,” he said.
“The outstanding team at JBH is committed to providing a spectrum of care spanning medical attention, mental health supports and community resources.”
Open 24 hours a day, year-round, Nina’s Place provides specialized care for those who have experienced sexual assault and/or recent domestic violence. Care is also available to children who have recently told someone they have been sexually assaulted.
The trauma of domestic violence and sexual assault can cause lifelong physical and mental health issues that impact families and communities, such as lost work opportunities and homelessness.
At Nina’s Place, service is provided by specially-trained nurses who are on call 24 hours a day and can respond within 45 minutes to any individual who needs help.
Medical and police reports are made with sensitivity and privacy, minimizing the individual’s exposure to police facilities, the general public and the clinical environment of the hospital. Survivors can receive short-term counselling, help with safety planning and be referred to community agencies for ongoing support.
“Our mission is to create a place of safety, dignity and comfort for survivors,” said Rhodes. “We put their needs and wishes first.”
More information on the services Nina’s Place provides can be found on the website.
They can also be reached by phone at 905-632-3737, ext. 5708, during business hours, or the hospital emergency department at 905-336-4116.
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