If an individual has been sexually assaulted, i.e. forced to have any sexual contact without his/her consent, it is important that the individual
- Go to a secure environment.
- Tell someone he/she trusts immediately. Remember it is not the victim’s fault. Sharing the feelings with a trusted person may help the victim feel less confused and isolated.
- Get medical help as soon as possible. Whether or not the victim chooses to officially report the incident to the Police or internal disciplinary bodies (Student Conduct Committee, Harassment Committee, etc.) it is important that the victim take care of him/herself and should be treated for any injuries as well as checked for sexually transmitted diseases.
- If the victim is a student, supportive counselling is available through the Counselling Service, Health Clinic, R.A.’s and the Bishop’s Women Centre.
- In the community, support may be obtained from the Sherbrooke Sexual Assault Centre - 563-9999 (a bilingual volunteer may not always be available), and the Lennoxville and District Women’s Centre - 564-6626.
Any student service or university official to whom such an incident is reported should fill in an incident report form maintaining the degree of confidentiality requested by the complainant.
