If you call the statewide hotline, you will be connected to the sexual assault crisis center nearest you. Counselors and advocates are available 24-hours a day, seven days a week to listen and offer support. They can provide you with information and resources to help you best decide what to do next. Advocates can accompany you at hospitals, police departments and courts—if you so choose. You do not have to go through this alone.
All direct services are free and confidential. They are available to all survivors in Connecticut—regardless of age, sex, immigration status, race, ethnicity, nationality, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or religious or spiritual beliefs.
Find Your Member CenterGo to a place that makes you feel safe. Contact someone you can trust, like a friend or family member.
Try to preserve evidence. If you think you might want to have an exam done or report the crime to the police, do not shower, douche, eat, brush your teeth, smoke, urinate, or wash your clothes.
Seek medical attention as soon as possible. Medical professionals can treat any injuries you may have, protect you against sexually transmitted infections, and address concerns about pregnancy.
As a victim of sexual assault, you may feel some of these emotions: anger, fear, guilt, loss of control, powerlessness, embarrassment, depression, isolation, denial, shame, disbelief, self-blame, or emotional shock. It is normal to experience these feelings and more. Each survivor of sexual assault responds differently. Your emotions are valid. You are not alone. You are not to blame for what happened.
You may be eligible to receive compensation for some of the expenses you incurred as a direct result of a sexual assault: lost wages, medical costs, private counseling expenses, and more. Connecticut’s Office of Victim Services has caring, compassionate and knowledgeable staff that can help you through the OVS Victim Compensation Program process.
They can be reached at 1-888-286-7347.
The Address Confidentiality Program (ACP), formerly known as the Safe at Home program, is available for Connecticut residents who are or have been victims of domestic violence, sexual assault or stalking. ACP provides a free mail-forwarding service to keep new addresses safe and private. Learn more about the program and whether or not it is right for you. Contact your local member center to schedule a meeting with a victim advocate. They will discuss the program’s benefits and limitations, help you develop a safety plan, and assist with the application process.
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