Statement: Charges Against Past Care Home Employee and Resources for Physical & Sexual Abuse Survivors

For nearly 70 years, Inclusion Saskatchewan has been committed to advocating for community inclusion for people with intellectual disabilities. We work toward people with intellectual disabilities being safe in their own homes and in control of their own bodies.

We are closely following the charges brought against Jaclyn Elias for assault against residents of the care home in which she worked in Wilkie, Saskatchewan. These charges include sexual assault, sexual assault with a weapon, assault, and uttering threats against at least four adult residents, taking place between January 2023 and February 2024.

When members of our community experience violating incidents like those implicated in this case, we are reminded that the systems built to support people often create complex vulnerabilities and further trauma among the people who access services. The impacts of such experiences are unquantifiable, impacting both the victims and the community at large, and demonstrate the continued discrimination and barriers to inclusion faced by people with intellectual disabilities every day.

“Inclusion Saskatchewan works with people who have intellectual disabilities as we listen, understand, and amplify their voices. These voices have been clear – self-determination and bodily autonomy are paramount, and everyone should be able to feel safe within their own homes. We will continue to fight for policies and practices that ensure that every person in Saskatchewan is safe and included within their community.” – Christina Martens-Funk, CEO

Do you feel unsafe in your home?

Inclusion Saskatchewan team members provide individualized advocacy support for people with intellectual disabilities whose rights have been violated. To read more about our support or to connect with our advocacy team, please visit inclusionsk.com/support.

If you are in need of more general resources on sexual abuse and violence, you may find what you need through one of these services:

• National Sexual Assault Hotline: 1-800-656-HOPE (4763)

• Government of Saskatchewan - Help from Victim Service Units and Agencies:

• 211 Saskatchewan – Services for People Experiencing Violence & Abuse

• Sexual Assault Services of Saskatchewan (SASS)

• Ending Violence Association of Canada

• National Helpline for Men Who Were Sexually Abused or Assaulted

• RAINN- Sexual Assault of Men and Boys

• Disabled Women’s Network of Canada (DAWN)

• Tell it Like it is- Sexual Health + Wellness Education