A welcome possibility to removing one of the deterrents to the Reporting of Rape and Sexual Assault

02 January 2008

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30 People accompanied to the Sexual Assault Treatment Unit (SATU) by the Dublin Rape Crisis Centre in December 2007

For the month of December 2007, 30 people were accompanied by the Volunteer services of the Dublin Rape Crisis Centre (DRCC) to the SATU service in the Rotunda Hospital. On December 22nd and December 29th (both Saturday nights) 8 people alone were brought to the Unit and one woman had to make the 10 hour round trip to Dublin from Donegal.

Ellen O’Malley-Dunlop, Chief Executive, DRCC said “It is very sad that there was no decrease in the number of people who were the victims of rape and sexual assault and who were accompanied by our Volunteer services to the Rotunda Hospital in December 2007 and December 2006. It is very worrying to see the increase in the levels of violence which is now accompanying these attacks. It is also a huge concern that in some cases the perpetrators of these crimes are not operating alone. Sometimes the perpetrators are in twos and threes.

We would impress on people to take heed of the Staying Safe Prevention Tips devised by the DRCC and in the sad event of a crime happening to contact the 24 hour National Helpline 1 800 77 88 88.”
Staying Safe
PREVENTION

  • Nominate a Designated Minder for your group of friends (in the same way as Designated Drivers are used)
  • Look out for each other
  • Do not get separated from your group
  • Keep your drink in your hand at all times
  • Do not accept a drink from someone you have just met
  • Ask a friend to mind your drink if you have to leave
  • Share Taxies
  • Make sure your mobile is charged at all times
  • If you have to travel alone make sure you have phoned ahead to where you are going and estimate the time of arrival
  • Have the Rape Crisis Centre National Freephone Helpline number 1 800 77 8888 keyed into your mobile phone

Steps to take if an attack has taken place

  • Contact the Rape Crisis Centre National 24 hr. Helpline 1 800 77 88 88 where you will get guidance to take the appropriate steps for Victims, Family and Friends
  • Report to the Gardai as soon as possible
  • Seek medical help

For further information please contact:
Ellen O’Malley-Dunlop, CEO – 01 661 4911 / 086 809 9618