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Rape Crisis Helderberg is a non-profit organisation committed to helping survivors of rape and abuse overcome their trauma through caring counselling in the Helderberg Basin and surroundings. The Crisis Centre offers these services free of charge and for individuals 18 years and above.
What can I do if I am raped?
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It is your choice whether you want to report it or not
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If you decide to report it, you should go to your nearest police station or contact Rape Crisis on 083 484 9409
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DO NOT wash yourself, change your clothes because you may destroy evidence
You have the right to:
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Say NO to any form of sexual violence
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Report a case of rape and lay a charge
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Be treated sensitively and efficiently by police, doctors and court officials
What happens at the Centre?
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In a comforting, homely setting, you will have the opportunity to talk to someone about what happened. This is confidential
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A doctor is available and will treat any injuries you might have
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We will be with you throughout the examination, if so required
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As there is a risk of infection with HIV or other sexually transmitted diseases, medication will be given to you
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After the examination you may take a bath at the centre and will be given new clothes, if needed
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We will provide emergency contraception to prevent getting pregnant
Rape is not about SEX
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It is an act of POWER and CONTROL and sex is used as the weapon to achieve this.
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RAPE is NEVER the survivor's fault - Rapists make the choice to rape and they are to blame. Silence does not mean consent
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Rape is a CRIME of violence that is committed through a sexual act. Reporting rape takes enormous courage - survivors do not take such steps lightly.
Myths regarding Rape
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Rapists are always strangers, they can be your boyfriend, husband, a family member or friend
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The way a woman dresses invites rape
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Women / men ask to be raped
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When a man is aroused, he can't stop
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Men can't be raped
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Women say NO but mean YES
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You cannot be raped by an intimate partner
MYTHS ARE FALSE BELIEFS AND REINFORCE THE SILENCE SURROUNDING RAPE!
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