Rape and sexual abuse
Immediate actions when receiving a report of a sexual assault in the hotel:
Take control - act quickly and confidently
Ask someone to call 999 ask for the police - the suspect may still be on premises
Ask for an ambulance if the victim is injured
You are responsible for the victim’s immediate safety
Secure the area where the assault took place
Help will come immediately
Looking after someone who has experienced rape or sexual assault
When someone is frightened and fearing for their life, it is important for you to remain calm when offering support.
When you phone 999 and speak to the operator, ask them how long a police response will be.
You can use this information to reassure the person you are helping.
The police will need to make sure any evidence is secured.
One thing that can assist in the preservation of forensic evidence left after a rape or sexual assault is to advise the person you’re helping not to smoke, eat or drink anything until police arrive.
Listening to the person you are talking to is very important. Remember, you are speaking to someone who has just experienced a violent assault.
Your primary role is as a care giver, until the police arrive.
The City of London police response officers are all trained in providing emotional and practical support to people who have experienced rape and sexual assault.
The Havens are specialist centres in London for people who have been raped or sexually assaulted. There are three Havens in London who offer confidential support and healthcare for women, men and children who have been raped or sexually assaulted. Visit their website here: The Havens
If someone who has experienced rape or sexual assault wants to call The Havens, these are the telephone numbers for the ones in London - available 24 hours.
Whitechapel: 020 3299 6900
Paddington: 020 3299 6900
Camberwell: 020 3299 6900
It is important to remember that you do not make a referral on behalf of someone or on behalf of the police.