Herefordshire pathways

What to do if someone tells you they have been sexually assaulted

Check are they safe - If they are in immediate danger call 999

Here are some steps you can take:

1. Listen and Believe: Listen attentively without judgment. Believe their account and validate their feelings. Survivors often fear not being believed, so your support matters.
2. Safety and Consent: Ensure their safety. If the assault is recent, encourage them to seek medical attention. Consent is crucial; do not pressure them into reporting or taking any specific action.
3. Encourage Reporting: Let them know their options. They can report to the police, Sexual Assault Referral Centres (SARCs), or other support services. Reporting is their choice, and you should respect it.
4. Medical Attention: If they haven’t already, suggest visiting a SARC or a sexual health clinic. SARCs provide medical, emotional, and practical support for survivors. Find rape and sexual assault referral centres - NHS (www.nhs.uk)
5. Preserve Evidence: If they decide to report, encourage them to preserve evidence (clothing, messages, etc.) without washing or changing. Explain that this can be crucial for investigations.
6. Support Networks: Help them connect with support networks. Speak to an advisor.

   Our Services - WMRSASC have specialist advisors who can discuss options with them and will be able to offer appropriate practical and emotional support tailored to their circumstances. This is confidential and does not instigate any kind of formal reporting process. Rape Crisis have a 24/7 Rape and Sexual Abuse Support Line: 0808 500 2222