Survivor Resources
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Help is available 24/7 for victims, survivors, and their families. Visit https://www.wcsap.org/help/csap-by-city to locate resources and support. |
Free and confidential support for victims, survivors, and their families
In Washington State, accredited Community Sexual Assault Programs (CSAPs) are available in nearly every county and provide victims, survivors, and their loved ones with free, confidential advocacy and support. According to the Washington Coalition of Sexual Assault Programs (WCSAP), advocates are available to discuss concerns, answer questions, offer support and coping strategies, accompany victims and survivors to medical or legal appointments, and help navigate systems and situations related to the assault. Children, youth, and adults of all genders are eligible. CSAP services may include:
- A confidential 24/7 hotline;
- Information about sexual assault and its potential impact;
- Referral to other community service providers including medical exams and counseling;
- Crisis intervention and on-going support;
- Medical and legal advocacy; and
- Community awareness education, outreach, and prevention.
Some programs also offer culturally and community-specific support and assistance. Visit https://wcsap.org/help/csap-by-county to find programs nearest you or call the 24/7 National Sexual Assault Hotline at 1-800-656-4673.
Child Advocacy Centers (CACs) are also available in nearly every county across Washington State and offer support and advocacy for child victims of sexual assault and their loved ones, as well as some adults with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities. Visit https://cacwa.org/map-of-cac-locations-in-wa/ for a list of CACs by county. CAC services may include:
- A multidisciplinary team approach involving law enforcement, prosecution, medical, therapy, advocacy, and other community resources;
- Medical evaluation onsite or through referral;
- Therapy onsite or through referral;
- Onsite forensic interviews; and
- Case staffing, tracking, and review.
Find Child Advocacy Centers in your area
Victims and survivors that suffer physical or psychological injury may be eligible for financial assistance through the Washington State's Crime Victims Compensation Program (CVCP). The CVCP covers the cost of forensic medical exams and may provide additional financial compensation for related medical/dental treatment, medication, mental health treatment, grief counseling, lost wages, and more. Visit www.CrimeVictims.Lni.wa.gov or call 1-800-762-3716 to determine if you qualify for benefits.
Reporting
Victims and survivors over the age of 18 may choose whether or not to make a report to a local law enforcement agency and participate in the criminal justice system. For those under the age of 18, mandated reporters, such as medical professionals, counselors, and teachers, are required to report the assault to child protective services or law enforcement. Making a report does not guarantee the perpetrator will be arrested, prosecuted, or convicted. There are many variables that come into play at different stages of the criminal justice process. A victim or survivor’s experience is valid whether or not the case leads to a conviction or is never reported at all. Advocates are available to discuss concerns and provide assistance navigating the reporting process. To find local resources and connect with an advocate visit https://www.wcsap.org/help/csap-by-city.
Explore options for medical care, support services, and reporting to police:
Medical Care
Victims and survivors may have medical concerns following an assault, even if it happened a long time ago. If an assault has happened within 120 hours (5 days) forensic evidence may be gathered that may be helpful in criminal proceedings. Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners (SANEs) are available at a number of hospitals across the state and provide trauma-informed, victim-centered care as well as options and information on how to make a report. Forensic examinations and medical care is free for all victims and survivors regardless of whether a report is made to law enforcement.
Locate Forensic Sexual Assault Medical Care Washington State Patrol Sexual Assault Kit Tracking System