There are other ways to get help other than talking to me
I would probably explain or show the victim/survivor that there are other ways to get help other than talking to me. At the same time, I would see if they are comfortable talking about the situation to anyone else, including family or their other friends. If I’m the only person they’re willing to talk to about it, then I’ll be as comforting as possible. But, if they are willing to open up and speak about it then I will obviously explain the Sexual Violence Support team that we have and advise them to report the case so that they can get the help they need.
Recommendations
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Sign on with a service such as KeepMe.Safe, which connects students with mental health professionals from cultures around the world and promote this service as part of university SV/SA service provision.
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Present learning materials in a way that is helpful to a friend supporting a victim/survivor.
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Make supports available to members of the university community who receive disclosures, or raise awareness of these supports within university communities where they already exist.
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When responding to a disclosure or report of sexual violence, highlight that students have the choice to involve support people of their choice, including friends or family members. Offer to reach out to support people if the student prefers. This applies to the victim/survivor or complainant and respondent.