What do I do if someone raped me?


Even if you don’t report the rape, you still have the right to free treatment to prevent HIV within 72 hours of of the rape.

GET TO A SAFE PLACE
Do this as soon as possible.

TELL SOMEONE

It may be very difficult for you to tell someone what has happened to you, but it’s important because this person can support your story and back you up in court.

DO NOT WASH YOURSELF

There might be hair, blood or semen on your body or clothes that can be used as evidence of the rape.

IF YOU ARE INJURED

Go straight to a hospital, community health centre or doctor.

REPORT THE RAPE

If you want to report the rape, go to the police station nearest to where the attack took place as soon as you can. Ask a friend or family
member to go with you for support. Keep the name of the police officer in charge of your case and your case number.

IF YOU’RE AFRAID

If you fear retribution or intimidation by the rapist/s, make sure the police are aware of this and ask that the rapist/s be not allowed out on
bail.

FORENSIC EXAMINATION

A doctor will examine every part of your body to find and collect samples of hair, blood or semen. This is part of the police investigation to
gather medical evidence of the crime.

GET SUPPORT

Ask for pamphlets or booklets on rape and the number of a local counselling service to give you further support and advice about the police
matter, court case and any other effects of the rape.

GET TREATMENT

Whether or not you want to lay a charge, make sure that within 72 hours you take:

  • The Morning After Pill (MAP) to prevent pregnancy;
  • An HIV test and antiretroviral treatment to prevent HIV infection;
  • Antibiotics to prevent a Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI).

YOU CAN CALL THESE CRISIS LINES:

Rape Crisis: 021 447 9762

Childline: 08 000 55 555

GRIP: 083 310 1321

LifeLine: 0800 150 150

SWEAT: 0800 60 60 60

Tears SMS Helpline: *134*7355#

Triangle Project: 021 712 6699

TVEP: 015 964 2310 or 015 963 6791

FIND A THUTHUZELA CARE CENTRE CLOSE TO YOU.

Find a Care Centre