If a student or colleague approaches you with concerns regarding
In cases of sexual assault or rape:
- Assure the person that you believe this is a serious matter and that you will do what you can within your power to help them get assistance that is needed. Ask open-ended questions in a non-judgemental way (avoiding "why" or "should" helps).
- Encourage the person to call the SARA (Sexual Assault Resource Agency) 24-hour hotline at 977-7273 from your office or from a nearby private space.
- Ask if she/he has received medical attention (especially if the assault occured recently). If not, urge the survivor to go to the UVa Emergency Department, where specially-trained forensic nurses (Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners) are on call 24 hours/day. They provide caring treatment and can collect physical evidence at the survivor's request. (Evidence is most valuable within 72 hours of the assault.)
- If she/he wishes to make a police report (even in the absence of physical evidence), call the police at 911 (on-Grounds 9-911). A female officer is usually provided on request.
- Male survivors of sexual assault may use the services of SARA, CAPS, and the Women's Center, and will be treated with sensitivity and care, regardless of the sex of the assailant.
- If the individual is a University employee, refer
her/him for counseling to:
- Employee Assistance Program: 924-9296
- SARA: 295-7273
- UVa Women's Center: 982-2361
- If the individual is a student, counseling resources
include:
- Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS): 924-5556
- SARA: 295-7273
- UVa Women's Center: 982-2361
- The Coordinator of Sexual Assault Education (982-2774) provides additional support and information regarding legal and universitiy options, as well as assistance to faculty whose students have been assaulted. Information, referral, and anonymous third-party report forms can be accessesed on this website, or filled out via telephone.
- The Office of the Dean of Students (924-7133) also provides support, information, and referral to students, and assists those having academic difficulties as a result of an assault. This is also the entry point for students wishing internal adjudication.
A student's experience of assault may have occurred some time prior to coming to the University. Click here for one student's account of her struggles to heal from abuse and how it impacted her acadmic performance, with suggestions for instructors.