Surrey Police Service (SPS) is proud to formally announce its new initiative S.O.A.R. – Strength, Opportunity, Autonomy, Resilience, an interactive youth safety presentation for students in Grades 6–10. This announcement coincides with Stop the Sexual Exploitation of Children & Youth Awareness Week, which runs from March 9 to 15.

Delivered in partnership with Surrey Schools, the Surrey Women’s Centre, and Pacific Community Resources Society (PCRS), the S.O.A.R. presentation has already reached over 4,500 youth since it launched in June 2025. Developed by SPS’s Youth Services Unit, S.O.A.R. uses interactive discussions, real life examples, and practical strategies to stay safe, support friends, and make informed, positive decisions.

SPS has a dedicated Youth Exploitation Liaison officer, including an embedded support worker from the Surrey Women’s Centre, who work closely with community partners and the Surrey School District to provide immediate outreach and support services for youth at risk of exploitation and human trafficking. SPS and the Youth Exploitation Liaison officer work with and encourage parents, who play an important role in supporting their children from online risks, to talk to their children about online safety, use online parental controls and privacy settings, and be aware of who your child is communicating with online. 

“S.O.A.R. is designed to help youth navigate challenges they face today, including online safety, sexual exploitation, substance use, mental wellness, and healthy relationships,” says Inspector Stephen Hurst, Officer in Charge of SPS’s Community Partnerships Section. “The program uses real-life scenarios, interactive activities, and the support of trained, community-based youth workers to promote positive decision-making, confidence, and resilience.” 

In British Columbia, Stop the Sexual Exploitation of Children & Youth Awareness Week highlights the importance of prevention, education, enforcement, and intervention strategies to protect children from sexual exploitation and human trafficking. Throughout the week, SPS will be supporting awareness efforts and sharing educational information with the community. To learn more, visit Preventing sexual exploitation of children and youth - Province of British Columbia. 

For more information about S.O.A.R, to request a presentation, or to access youth safety resources, please visit S.O.A.R. – Strength, Opportunity, Autonomy, Resilience | Surrey Police. Additional information on Youth Safety can be found on SPS’s website here: Youth Safety | Surrey Police.