Steps for Responding to Victims of Sexual Assault for Residence Life Staff

Steps for Responding to Victims of Sexual Assault for Residence Life Staff

1.	The first responsibility is to provide support and basic crisis intervention to the victim.
		Listen to the victim.
		Communicate sensitively and effectively.
		Explain the limits of confidentiality

2.	The second responsibility is to help the victim identify options for obtaining help.
		Talk with the victim about types of options available, including: Counseling – s/he can speak with SAS/CVA staff immediately. Medical care – s/he can obtain medical care through a local rape crisis center, a local hospital, or at the university health center during regular health center hours. Evidence collection, gathered through a forensic exam, can only be done at the local rape crisis center. This exam can be completed if the assault occurred within five days. Judicial/Legal options – s/he can report the assault to the police or to campus judicial officials.
		It is important to remember that the victim may choose not to obtain counseling, medical, or legal help, and her/his decision should be respected.

3.	The third responsibility is to notify the on-call SAS/CVA staff person*.
		You or your supervisor should contact the on-call staff to inform her that an assault has occurred and let her know if the victim would like to speak with her.
		During regular office hours M-F, 8:30-4:30, call the SAS/CVA office directly at 732-932-1181. After hours, contact the RU PD and ask to speak with the SAS/CVA on-call staff. You only need to give your name, position, and the number where you can be reached. Calling the police does not mean you are reporting the assault.
		*If the assault happened more than five days ago and the victim does not wish to speak with SAS/CVA on-call staff, you can wait until regular office hours to inform SAS/CVA that a sexual assault occurred.

4.	The fourth responsibility is to follow your college’s residence life department protocol for reporting the sexual assault to the appropriate staff. Each college may have various addendums or procedures for responding to victims of sexual assault and they should be followed in addition to the information provided here.