If you or a friend needs immediate assistance...
Trained Crisis Advocates are available anytime after May 10 2009 at 770-586-5423. Our goal is to help you decide for yourself the best form of action. PRCC Crisis Advocates are hear to provide general information, assist with referrals, assist with reporting, or simply talk. All information will remain confidential. All services are free.
If you are assaulted
Survival is your goal. You are not to blame. The blame for any act of sexual violence lies solely with the perpetrator.
Get to a safe place if possible and dial 911 or call the PRCC Crisis Hotline at 770-586-5423.
Do not shower, change your clothes, eat, drink or smoke as these acts may contaminate possible evidence if you decide to press charges.
Do not disturb the crime scene.
Report the incident to law enforcement. Making a report does not mean you must press charges.
Get medical attention as soon as possible. The Piedmont Rape Crisis Center has specially trained advocates and nurses to serve and support survivors through medical examinations.
Try to recall all you can about the assailant such as tattoos, voice, hair, clothes, scars, smell, etc.
If your friend has been assaulted
How to Help a Friend
1. Listen. Be there for your loved one. Don’t be judgmental.
2. Believe her/him. It takes courage to talk about an incident of sexual assault with other people. Many victims remain silent because they feel ashamed and/or they fear that they will be disbelieved or blamed.
3. Don’t blame the victim. No one asks to be raped.
4. Let her/him know right away that you care and want to help anyway you can.
5. Be a good listener. Let her/him decide what and when s/he feels comfortable telling you about the assault and its impact.
6. Encourage her/him to make her/his own decisions and choices. This is one way of helping a sexual assault victim regain a sense of personal power and control.
7. Encourage your friend to reach out to people and place that know how to help with sexual assault issues specifically – such as the Piedmont Rape Crisis Center.
8. Offer to accompany your friend to get help with professionals such as the police, SANE nurses, and counselors.
9. Remember that your friend has been through an emotionally painful, traumatic experience. Your friend may act differently after the assault. Some of your friend’s reactions may be difficult to watch, but you being there for your friend can help a great deal.
10. Respect your friend’s privacy and confidentiality. Let your friend decide whom she or he wants to confide in.
