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Are you a victim of sexual assault?
Call our 24 hour hotline now @ 610.566.4342
If you are the victim of rape or sexual assault, help is available. You may choose to go to the hospital for a Sexual Assault Evidence Collection Kit or make a report to law enforcement. Victim Advocates can help you to understand your options and provide support.
At the Hospital:
- A specially trained Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE) or doctor can perform an exam and collect evidence, which may be used if you decide to report the crime to police. Evidence collection is best conducted as soon as possible after a sexual assault.
- You may be offered medications to help prevent sexually transmitted infections (STI's) and pregnancy.
- Bring a change of clothes, as the police may want to collect your clothing as evidence.
- If the hospital has not notified Delaware County Victim Assistance Center by the time you arrive, you can request that they do so. A trained victim advocate is available 24/7 for immediate support.
- Be sure to make an appointment for follow-up care, as directed by the doctor at the hospital.
Your Choices:
- If you go to the hospital, medical personnel may be required to alert police that a crime occurred. However, you do not have to talk to the police in order to get a forensic exam. You can decide later whether or not you want to speak with police.
- If you are 18 years or older, you may choose to have the sexual assault evidence kit collected and tested anonymously/without a name attached to it. You can decide later whether you want to speak to police and identify yourself.
Even if you did not go to the hospital or report the assault to the police immediately, you may still do so. You may also seek support and services from Delaware County Victim Assistance Center at any time.
Common Reactions
Victims of sexual assault react in many different ways. Some common reactions are shock, fear, numbness, confusion, denial, self-blame, embarrassment, and helplessness. It is also common to experience nightmares, anxiety, eating or sleep disturbances, mood swings, depression, headaches, fatigue, and social withdrawal. These emotional reactions are part of the normal response to a traumatic event. After a sexual assault it is important to have understanding and emotional support. Family, friends, and a Delaware County Victim Assistance Center counselor or support group can help you to cope with the crisis. If you would like to discuss any of these feelings or reactions, please feel free to call our hotline and speak with a counselor. Handling these strong emotions is the first step toward healing.
Remember, it is not your fault!
No one asks to be sexually assaulted.
No one deserves to be sexually assaulted.
No one should face the trauma of sexual assault alone.
Delaware County Victim Assistance Center provides trained counselors who will listen and support you.
Remember, it is not your fault
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