For the very first time, Sask. is recognizing the month of May as Sexual Violence Prevention Month to help combat the staggering number of people in the province who experience sexual violence.

The switch from Sexual Violence Awareness Week to Prevention Month represents the shift from awareness to taking active steps towards prevention.

Tal Marsolais, communications and community outreach specialist for Sexual Assault Services of Saskatchewan hopes to educate people and take proactive steps to preclude sexual violence.

"We know that sexual violence is a pervasive issue within our province and we're looking to address root causes and prevent violence before it begins," she said

Southwest Crisis Services in Swift Current is one of thirteen member agencies of Sexual Assault Services of Saskatchewan. 

"It's not your fault, you deserve to be believed, and you deserve healing," said Marsolais when asked what advice she might give to someone who's experienced SA or violence.  

Community members are encouraged to get involved and support their local sexual violence counselling agencies and support services, additionally, a sexual violence prevention tool kit can be downloaded at sassk.ca.