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How can I support someone who discloses sexual assault or sexual harassment?

If someone discloses a sexual assault or an instance of sexual harassment to you it means they have identified you as someone they feel safe with. Here are some useful tips on supporting the person disclosing.

Find an appropriate place

Find a place to start or continue a conversation where the person feels comfortable and you can talk privately without feeling rushed or interrupted.

Establish immediate safety

If the person is in immediate danger or needs urgent medical attention, contact emergency services on 000.

ECU Security can be contacted 24 hours a day on (08) 6304 3333.

Listen and reassure

If an individual discloses sexual assault or sexual harassment to you, it usually means they trust you. It's important that you:

  • Treat them seriously
  • Listen to them and allow them to talk about the event in their own time.
  • Reassure them that the incident was not their fault.

Some things you can say

  • What you have told me is very important . Let me find someone who is able to help you.
  • I’m sorry that this happened to you. What do you need right now?
  • Is there someone I can call for you?
  • What is the most helpful thing I can do for you right now?

Your role is not to investigate, nor are you expected to be a counsellor. Your role is to listen and then assist them to access the services they require. However well-intentioned you may be, don’t force the person to make a decision.

Provide support options and reporting options

As a student or staff member receiving a disclosure, you can offer support to the individual to consider their options for accessing support services and reporting the incident. Support services are available to students regardless of when and where the incident took place. The individual does not need to formally report the incident to access these services.

Support options.

Reporting options.

Practice self-care

Supporting someone who has experienced sexual assault or harassment can be challenging. It is important to take care of yourself after receiving distressing information. ​

Acknowledge your feelings and get support for yourself.

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