Rape Recovery & Prevention
1 in 6 Women in Florida is Raped
WCJ’s Rape Recovery Team (RRT) supports and empowers survivors of sexual violence by advocating for their rights, dignity and respect. In addition to 1:1 client services, we also provide prevention education, services through our Green Dot program, as well as community education and outreach.
The Rape Recovery Team (RRT) provides rape recovery and prevention services. Communications with RRT advocates are confidential.
The RRT responds quickly and compassionately to survivors of sexual violence whether or not they have chosen to report the crime to police. Services are available to survivors of all genders in Duval, Nassau, and Baker Counties. Our approach to support is empowerment-based, providing access to information and resources so that survivors can make the choice they feel is best for them.
WCJ IS HERE TO HELP
Experiencing sexual violence can change a survivor’s view of the world. Whether or not the survivor suffers any physical injuries, the emotional impact of the violence can be significant. Recovery can seem like an endless journey. Emotions such as fear, shame and confusion may continue long after the violence ends. There is support available for you wherever you are in the healing process.
The RRT can offer support through the following services for survivors and their loved ones:
- 24-hour hotline answered by an advocate who can offer crisis intervention, information, and referrals
- 24-hour response to survivors who would like a forensic examination
- Information to assist survivors in understanding their rights and options
- Advocacy and accompaniment for medical appointments and criminal justice proceedings
- Information and referral for community resources
- Advocate-facilitated peer support groups
- Referral for mental health counseling services offered by the Women Center’s Counseling Department
Sexual Assault Forensic Exam (SAFE)
Survivors of sexual assault are entitled to a sexual assault forensic medical exam. The WCJ Rape Recovery Team (RRT) provides sexual assault forensic medical exams to survivors of sexual violence ages 18 and older. Exams for any patient under the age of 18 are provided by the Child Protection Team. WCJ provides sexual assault services for Duval, Baker and Nassau Counties. However, there are no residency requirements to receive any service.
Sexual assault forensic medical exams are available whether or not the survivor chooses to make a report to law enforcement.
Exams are available within 120 hours (five days) from the time of assault. The exam process includes a head-to-toe medical check, including injury documentation and collection of physical evidence. If the patient reports to law enforcement, the evidence is provided to the appropriate law enforcement agency for processing. If the patient chooses not to report, the evidence is stored by law enforcement for a period of up to two years.
The SAFE Program team consists of a Medical Director, Sexual Assault Forensic Examiners and trained Advocates. Examiners are trained in forensic evidence collection, sensitivity and expert witness testimony. The Medical Director is a licensed MD and provides supervision for program protocols and staff.
The SAFE Program is located at 5300 Emerson St. Jacksonville, Florida 32207.
Abuse in Later Life
WCJ offers specialized advocacy and support services to elder survivors of abuse (sexual, physical, emotional and financial exploitation). In addition, innovative training and education is available to professionals on recognizing, addressing, investigating, and prosecuting cases of abuse against elders. In addition, specialized RRT services are available to elder survivors of sexual violence.
8% of rapes or sexual assaults involve a male victim
1 in 6 statistic from https://www.fcasv.org/information/sexual-assault-statistics
8% statistic from United States Department of Justice
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