Sexual Assault

Sexual assault is defined as “ an act in which one intentionally sexually touches another person without that person's consent, or coerces or physically forces a person to engage in a sexual act against their will.”

Reach Services For Sexual Assault

Confidential Crisis Hotline, Safe-Haven Shelter, Hospital & Court Accompaniment, and Support Groups

Types of Sexual Assault

• Rape
• Sexual Assault
• Incest
• Sexual Exploitation
• Unwanted or Inappropriate Sexual Contact
• Sexual Harassment
• Exposure
• Threats
• Stalking/
• Cyberstalking
• Peeping
  

Risk reduction

• Keep your keys & phone on hand when you are walking alone in public.
• Always trust your instincts, if you are feeling uncomfortable leave.
  Be confident & assertive in your walk and talk.
• Never hitchhike.
• Be aware of your surroundings.
• If you choose to use alcohol or drugs have a trusted friend with you.
• Keep gas in your car just in case you need to leave quickly.
• Communicate with your partner: NO MEANS NO; clear verbal consent means yes.
• Only drink something you poured yourself or that comes in a pre-sealed container.
• Don’t leave your drink unattended.
• Always have extra money to get home if you didn’t drive.
  

If someone you know has been sexually assaulted:

DO:

• Be supportive, listen to them.
• Share your feelings of concern for them.
• Communicate to your friend that they are not responsible for the violation.
• Make sure your friend has a safe place to stay.
• Allow your friend to regain control by making their own decisions.
• Make yourself available to accompany your friend to a helping resource (e.g., hospital, Health Center, Counseling Center, The Cottage).
• Realize that you, too, have been affected and seek support if you need it.
  

DON’T:

• Attempt to seek revenge.
• Make jokes.
• Be angry with your friend.
• Force your friend to talk and/or take control away from them.
• Ask your friend how they could “let this happen”.
• Assume you understand how your friend feels.
• Discuss the incident with others unless you have permission from your friend.

Getting out of an abusive or violent relationship isn’t easy. Maybe you’re still hoping that things will change or you’re afraid of what your partner will do if they discover you’re trying to leave. Whatever your reasons, you probably feel trapped and helpless. But help is available. There are many resources available for abused and battered women, including crisis hotlines, shelters—even job training, legal services, and childcare.  Call Reach now to start living a life free of fear, it's what you deserve.