If you are raped or sexually assaulted
- Get to a safe place
- Try to preserve all physical evidence. Do not wash, take a shower, use the toilet or change clothing. If you do change clothes, put all the clothing you were wearing at the time of the attack in a paper rather than a plastic bag.
- Contact someone you trust If you prefer, you may ask a trusted friend or family member to join and support you through the decision-making, medical treatment, and interviews which will follow.
- Get medical attention A special examination should be conducted as soon as possible following an assault to determine your physical condition and to collect evidence that may be used in future proceedings. An emergency room physician or gynecologist will perform the examination. Even if you have not been physically injured beyond the assault itself, this examination is recommended to maintain your legal options as physical evidence should be collected within the first 24 hours following an assault. While evidence may be collected later, delay brings the risk that the usefulness of evidence may be diminished. You may request a support person of your choice to be present throughout the procedure. Ordinarily, hospital personnel will contact the local police department when providing treatment for injuries resulting from a sexual assault or other violent crime. However, it is the victim’s choice whether or not to proceed with criminal charges.
- Contact Police by dialing 9-1-1 or call Bucks County Community College Security & Safety at 215-968-8911
- Talk with a counselor A counselor can explain your options, give you information, and provide emotional support. Counselors are available on all campuses through Student Services, 215-968-8189 and off campus from the Network of Victim Assistance (NOVA) at 800-675-6900 or www.novabucks.org. Counselors will maintain your privacy and confidentiality.
- If You Need Transportation The Office of Security and Safety will transport sexual assault victims to the hospital if necessary; however the preferred method of transportation is always via ambulance. To request transportation call Security and Safety at 215-968-8911.
Definition of Sexual Misconduct
Sexual Harassment/Sexual Assault
Complaint Procedures
Info. Guide To Vicims of Sexual Assault
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Non-emergency medical procedures
Even if you do not have evidence collected at a hospital emergency room, it is still important to get medical attention. An examination in this case will include treatment of any physical problems and various lab tests for sexually transmitted diseases and pregnancy. Such non-emergency treatment can be arranged through your family doctor or other healthcare provider.
Counseling Resources
Counseling is available to Bucks County Community College students at all three campuses. Counseling may be accessed by appointment via Student Services 215-968-8189 or counseling@bucks.edu. Student Services hours of operation. Counselors are available to confidentially discuss crisis or non-emergency matters related to rape, sexual assault, victimization or abuse. They can help you obtain medical assistance, psychological counseling, understand victim’s rights and learn coping methods to assist you following the assault. Discussing your concerns with a counselor will help you sort through feelings and make decisions. You may contact the Student Services Center for information without disclosing your name. Counselors will not reveal your identity to anyone without your permission.
Off-campus: Network of victim assistance (NOVA) is a local crisis center with a 24-hour emergency hotline - 1-800-675-6900. Trained volunteer counselors can provide information and confidential options to victims of sexual assault. NOVA also offers support groups for survivors of rape, incest and other forms of sexual abuse. All services are free. www.novabucks.org
A Word About Date Rape Drugs
Some predators may employ date rape drugs such as Rohypnol and GHB to incapacitate their victims. Such drugs can be easily mixed into drinks. When mixed with alcohol they can be harmful or even fatal. Suggestions for avoiding date rape drugs include:
- never accept a beverage from a stranger and never leave your drink unattended;
- if you begin to feel ill or uneasy while on a date or in a social situation, follow your instincts and leave;
- let friends know where you will be and keep them updated;
- stay sober and aware.
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