Trustworthy, kind, resourceful, expert
I think the person that’s gonna help someone that has suffered sexual assault has got to be trustworthy and they have to be compassionate, like, someone who puts themselves in other people’s shoes, that are always thinking of others and their feelings. They've got to be kind too, and tolerant. Also, they have to be resourceful, they have to know about it and help the student or whoever is suffering this. [...] Ah, for example, the nurse that’s going to help has to be like an expert on the subject so she can help you correctly and help to heal. They have to be available for you when you need them.
Recommendations
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Promote SANE nurses as supporters for victims/survivors. Ideally, this would happen in the context of a formal partnership with SANE nurses, which includes 24/7 availability of SANE nurse services on campus.
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Use approaches that are trauma informed and survivor-centred.
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Provide long-term support to victims/survivors through university services and/or through referals to external community-based agencies.
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Allow victim/survivors to share their experiences and seek support when they are ready. Offer information about time limits for reporting when applicable.