Help a survivor (Listen, Support, Refer)
When someone experiences sexual assault or harassment, the people they choose to talk to about it play a vital role.
Some survivors wish to disclose their experience while other survivors choose to disassociate from the experience and avoid recognition or engagement with the topic. All of these reactions are normal and it’s important to support a survivor in making choices that feel comfortable to them.
It can be difficult to know how to respond and you may be unsure about how to help. Read the steps below or download our guide (PDF, 1.1 MB) to make sure that your response is non-judgemental, compassionate and supportive.
3. Refer
The best thing you can do is to outline the support services that are available to them so that they can make their own decision about their next steps.
It’s important you don’t provide a survivor with misleading advice and instead, put them in touch with experts who can help them.
Where can I refer?
Show that there is support available by:
- taking the time to direct them to the Sexual Misconduct Support Unit (SMSU);
- staying with them if they choose to call the information line or community group; and
- agreeing to go with them if they want to contact the SMSU or a First Responder.
Need emergency support?
If you are experiencing an emergency or need urgent support in relation to an experience of sexual assault or harassment, then you can call:
- +61 7 3365 3333 UQ Security for on campus emergencies
- 000 for immediate police or ambulance assistance
- 1800 Respect 1800 737 732 for 24/7 counselling support
- Sexual Assault Response Team (SART) 07 3646 5207 for 24/7 Acute Response
- External community support options in Queensland
