Staying Safe Tips for this Bank Holiday Weekend

24 October 2013

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DRCC’s Staying Safe Tips

  • Look out for each other
  • Do not get separated from your group
  • Do not drink to excess and 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
  • Stay where there are lots of people
  • Nominate a Designated Minder for each group of 6  (In the same way as Designated Drivers are used)
  • Share taxis and lifts
  • If you have to travel alone make sure you phone ahead to where you are going and in the hearing of the driver and give your estimated time of arrival
  • Make sure your mobile is charged at all times
  • Be aware that having sexual intercourse with a person without their consent constitutes rape
  • A person who is drunk cannot give informed consent
  • The age of consent for sexual intercourse in Ireland is 17 years
  • Key the National 24 hour helpline 1 800 77 88 88* into your phone
  • Report any crime to the Gardai (if you wish) and seek medical help
  • Think of the consequences before sharing a picture or a video on social media.

Steps to be taken in the event of a rape or sexual assault:

  • Call the National 24-Hour Helpline if you need the help of a Rape Crisis Centre for a recent rape or childhood sexual abuse.
  • If you are a family member or a friend and don’t know what to do when someone close to you has disclosed that they have been raped or sexually assaulted call this number and you will get the help you need
  • Contact your parents or Guardian or a friend
  • You may choose to report the incident to the Gardai
  • Get the medical support you need

Our aim is to offer a safe and confidential space where women and men of all ages can be listened to and supported without shame or self-blame

*If you need any help or are unsure of what to do, call  the National 24 hour Helpline 1 800 77 88 88 where you will get support and guidance from a trained person

ENDS

 

For further information please contact:

Ellen O’Malley-Dunlop, Chief Executive, DRCC       01 661 4911/ 086 809 9618