1.14 What to Bring to the Health Center

Different health centers may be prepared to support survivors needs—or not.

It’s helpful for an advocate to arrive with the following items:

1. A government-issued photo ID to identify yourself at the health center as well as an organization-specific ID if you are advocating as part of an organization’s services;

2. A list of emergency numbers, including law enforcement, child protection services and your organization’s support network (if you have one);

3. A fully-charged mobile phone with ample credit topped up;

4. Two bottles of water, one for yourself and one for the survivor;

5. A snack or sandwich for the survivor (please be aware of any common dietary restrictions in your area);

6. A set of modest clothes, including one-size-fits-most underwear and shoes for the survivor, who may need to leave their clothing as evidence;

7. A light blanket or shawl for the survivor, in case the health center is cold or they are in shock;

8. A coloring book with crayons and a few children’s books, in case the survivor needs to bring their children because they could not find child care; and

9. An information packet of service referrals that are available for sexual assault survivors in your community.