The Alachua County Victim Services & Rape Crisis Center is reminding the community that free and confidential support for victims and survivors of sexual violence is available 24 hours a day, particularly as campus activities are in full swing.
The center’s services include a 24-hour sexual assault recovery helpline and accompaniment, information about medical, reporting and safety options, crisis intervention and emotional support, and ongoing support for survivors and their loved ones.
The 24-hour Sexual Assault Helpline is 352-264-6760.
Research on campus sexual violence has identified the beginning of the academic year, particularly the transition into college, as an important time for sexual violence awareness and education. While research does not identify a single period when sexual assault occurs, studies have found that students can face increased vulnerability to sexual violence during their first year of college. Providing information early about consent, bystander intervention and available support services can help students recognize risks and know where to turn for support.
One important prevention step is obtaining full consent before engaging in sexual activity. Consent must be freely and clearly given. If someone is too intoxicated to consent, seems unsure or expresses hesitation, stop and do not proceed.
Community members can also practice bystander intervention when they see a situation that causes concern. Safe interventions can include checking in with someone who appears uncomfortable, creating a distraction or contacting someone who can safely assist. Bystander intervention does not mean putting yourself in danger. In some situations, the safest option is to alert someone with the authority to intervene.
“Talking about prevention is an important part of building a community where people understand consent, look out for one another and are willing to step in when something doesn’t seem right,” said Director Laura Kalt. “But prevention should never be confused with responsibility. If someone experiences sexual assault, the responsibility belongs to the person who chose to cause harm—not to the survivor for what they did or didn’t do to prevent it.”
For more information, contact Laura Kalt at 352-264-6762 or lkalt@alachuacounty.us.
