‘Safe environment first’ say UK and US rape guidelines

In this series:

■ Call for better support for UAE rape victims

■ UAE schools 'need to teach meaning of consent'

■ Rape victims should show faith in UAE legal system

ABU DHABI // How to report a rape varies from country to country.

In the UK, the government recommends phoning the emergency 999 number to report a rape or attempted sexual assault as soon as possible after the crime.

If the offence has recently happened, a victim is advised to keep the clothes they were wearing and not wash them, the police may need them as evidence for the investigation. A victim is advised not to shower because there may be evidence that the police can use.

If a victim does not want to report the attack to the police, he or she is advised to go to a sexual assault referral centre that can offer medical support and collect forensic evidence that can be used later should they wish to file a complaint in the future.

There are also several support groups and hotlines.

Guidelines by Rape Crisis England and Wales, a trauma support group, say a victim should first get to a safe place such as the home of a trusted friend or family member. If a victim does not wish to take legal action, it is advised that they seek medical attention to receive treatment for any injuries, emergency contraception, and checks for sexually transmitted infections.

In the United States – where there is a high incidence of rape, according to the country’s rape crisis centre – the Rape, Abuse and Incest National Network again suggests a victim of sexual assault should first find a safe environment.

The victim is then advised to report to the police by calling the emergency number 911 to preserve evidence of the attack and write down all details of the assault. Victims should go to hospital and ask for an evidence kit to be administered or, if a victim suspects they may have been drugged, ask to give a urine sample.

Again, should victims not want to report the assault they are advised to get support from a national hotline and receive medical attention for any possible injuries.