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If you have experienced sexual violence, it is not your fault! You’ve already made a choice to seek help by visiting our website, and that is a huge step.

 

Sexual violence is any type of unwanted sexual contact, ranging from sexist attitudes and actions to rape and murder. Sexual violence can include words and actions of a sexual nature against a person’s will. If you were intoxicated or had an ongoing relationship with the perpetrator, it is still NEVER your fault. Sexual assault happens regardless of gender, sexual identity, or age.

 

There are many forms of sexual violence and they are all harmful.

 

This page primarily focuses on sexual assault, but regardless of what the harmful action was, we encourage you to utilize the hotlines and helplines below. We believe sexual violence is a continuum of harm that spans well beyond sexual assault. For a guide to non-crisis resources that you can access throughout your healing journey, even if it’s just starting, visit our Resources page. It’s never too late to seek care.

Emergency Care

If you have been sexually assaulted within the past 120 hours, you can go to any hospital Emergency Department and request a sexual assault medical exam. However, some hospitals have enhanced care.  These hospitals, which are designated as SAFE Designated Center, will provide the following services:

 

  • Timely, compassionate, and survivor-centered medical care, in a designated and appropriately equipped private room.
  • An advocate, if available, can offer information, support, advocacy, and referrals.
  • Treatment to prevent pregnancy and reduce the risk of the transmission of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and HIV.
  • The services of a Sexual Assault Forensic Examiner (SAFE), a medical professional who has been specially trained to provide care to sexual assault survivors, including forensic evidence collection.
  • Referrals to mental and physical health care services.If you choose – you can talk to the police.

Scroll down to search our NYC SAFE Center Locator to find a SAFE Center near you.

Hotlines & Helplines

Safe Horizon advocates are available 24 hours, 365 days a year to provide confidential crisis counseling, safety planning, assistance with finding shelter, and information about resources: 212.227.3000

 

RAINN’s Nation Sexual Assault Hotline also offers a safe and secure chat option. Chat online with a trained staff member who can provide you with confidential crisis support 24 hours, 365 days a year here: https://hotline.rainn.org/online

 

Access our Center Locator, a searchable database of services available for survivors in New York City, by clicking here.