This page has been printed from the Yarrow Place website http://www.yarrowplace.sa.gov.au

Rape and sexual assault can happen to anyone regardless of age, cultural background, sex, economic situation and sexuality. Your response as a trusted doctor or health worker to a victim of rape or sexual assault is very important. You can help them to feel more in control of what is happening. Below you will find guidelines to assist in responding to someone who has told you they have been raped or sexually assaulted.

Believe them. False reports of rape and sexual assault are very rare.

Listen and hear what the person is saying to you. Acknowledge the pain. Don't get caught up in your own responses such as disgust or anger at the story told to you.

Let them know they are not to blame. No matter what they are wearing, how intoxicated they are, what they were doing or who they were with, rape or sexual assault is never the victim's fault. Beware of unintentional comments or questions that may be interpreted as implying responsibility (eg why were you there?).

Fear, shame, guilt, anger, frustration, panic, despair and calmness are all normal reactions. Let them know their feelings and reactions are OK. Take care not to minimise or discount how they feel.

Ask what might help them to feel safe and allow the person to have control and choice over what is happening to them. (Whether to involve the police, whether to contact a sexual assault service etc.)

Treat the person with dignity and respect. Confidentiality is important.

Respect the person's space - don't crowd or touch without permission.

Recognise and affirm the person's strengths and courage to disclose that they had been assaulted.

Give information about the options for further action.

Promote the concept of future recovery.

Remember - offenders may give plausible denials and may be pillars of society.