If someone you know has experienced sexual violence, there are lots of ways in which you can help them. You should be as supportive and non-judgemental as possible.
Sometimes support means providing resources, such as how to access support services or helplines, seek medical attention, or report the crime to the police. But often, just listening and being there is the best way to support them.
Think
- Are they in immediate danger? If they are seriously injured, ask them if they are happy for you to call Security (020 7815 6666), who can provide first aid or advice on calling an ambulance or take them to A&E for medical treatment. Do not report it to the police without their permission unless they (or anyone else) are in immediate danger.
- Find a safe space. If an incident has just happened, try to find somewhere they feel safe. If this isn't possible and they are scared or fearful, you can suggest you call security together.
- Let them decide what happens next. Everyone deals with sexual violence differently. While you might be someone who needs to talk through things, maybe they don’t want to talk about it at all. It’s important to let them decide what happens next. Ask them what they need and then respect their wishes. Don’t ever try to force them into doing or saying something that makes them feel uncomfortable.
Talk
- Listen. If they want to talk, just taking the time to listen about what has happened can help, even if it’s difficult for you to hear. You might have a lot of questions, but try not to interrupt.
- Ask them how you can help. You might have ideas about what they should or shouldn’t be doing, but it's important to allow them to come to their own decisions without feeling pressured.
- Remind them they are not alone and it is not their fault. Let them know that you are there for them and remind them, maybe even more than once, that they are not to blame. Ask if there is anyone else in their life they feel comfortable talking to about what has happened, and remind them that there is support available from LBSU and from other organisations if they want it.
You can report an incident and find out how to get support from
Report and Support. You can email the Mental Health and Wellbeing Team at studentwellbeing@lsbu.ac.uk
See these FAQs for more information:
What is sexual harassment?What is sexual violence?How do I book an appointment with the Mental Health and Wellbeing team?
