A partnership between two organizations is helping to ensure the safety of interpersonal violence victims in southwestern Saskatchewan.

The Southwest Crisis Services (SWCS) board will be moving their Outreach Team to the offices of the Southwest Youth Emergency Shelter (SWYES) as both the organizations integrate their services.

The move will allow SWCS to head up a Sexual Assault Services program funded by the Saskatchewan Ministry of Justice and Attorney General, as well as the Ministry of Corrections and Policing.

Heather Lennox, executive director of Southwest Crisis Services, said that the program will make them more accessible to those in need.

"SWCS remains committed to our efforts in support services, public education and prevention, with specific attention now given to expanding knowledge on sexual violence."

The new Sexual Assault Services unit will provide information, trauma management, emotional support, and other resources to those who walk through their doors.

This adds to the organization's other roles already established, such as their shelter, crisis line, and support counselling.

SWYES President Shaun Hanna, said that it was a win-win for both groups, and their clients.

"In our current phase, SWYES is building capacity to deliver essential services to at-risk youth. Southwest Crisis Services has always been an important piece of that puzzle for us. Our partnership with them means that we can provide a safe space for at-risk populations to access these services, and, in doing so, build capacity for more efficient service delivery in our area."

At a press conference hosted earlier today, the partnership was made official.

Swift Current Online will have more on the conference tomorrow.