What can I do if someone I know has been raped

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Reassure her that it is not her fault.

Be supportive. Listen to her feelings, help her decide what she needs, and reassure her that she can go on with her life.

Respect her wishes for privacy and safety. Do not tell anyone else unless she wants you to.

Go with her to see a health worker, to report the rape to the police, to talk with someone who is trained to listen and support her, to see a lawyer, and to go to court if she wants to do those things.

Do not protect the rapist if you know him. He is a danger to every woman in the community.

Sources
  • Burns, A. A., Niemann, S., Lovich, R., Maxwell, J., & Shapiro, K. (2014). Where women have no doctor: A health guide for women. Hesperian Foundation.
  • Audiopedia ID: en020314