Survivor-centred support in Uganda
Survivor-centred support in Uganda
Do this as soon as possible.
Sharing your experience with someone can be challenging but is crucial. This person can support you and corroborate your story if needed.
Remember, it’s best not to clean yourself or change clothes right away. Keeping things like hair, blood, or semen on your body or clothes can be really important for evidence later on.
You can go to a hospital, health centre, or doctor for the care you need. They can treat your injuries and provide support.
If you choose to report what happened, go to the nearest police post where it occurred. Take a friend or family member with you for support. Remember to get the police officer’s name, contact info, and your case number.
If you’re afraid, let the police know. Tell them if you’re worried about the person who hurt you, and ask that they be kept in custody to keep you safe.
A doctor will carefully check for evidence like hair, blood, or semen to help with the investigation.
Regardless of whether you report the rape, within 72 hours, you should; take the Morning After Pill (MAP) to prevent pregnancy, get an HIV test and begin antiretroviral treatment to prevent HIV infection, and take antibiotics to prevent sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
You don’t have to go through this alone. Reach out for support through the following means:
Taking these steps can help ensure your safety and well-being. Remember, you are not alone, and support is available.
Rape or sexual assault can evoke feelings of hatred, anger, isolation, and sadness. It can also make you lose hope. Speaking to someone about the ordeal is an important step toward recovery.
Please reach out to us via:
Toll-Free call: 0800 389389 | WhatsApp – +256 759 296003 | SMS – +256 759 296003 / +256 785 673788
If you need to report a case of rape, go to the nearest police station and inform the person at the front desk. You can bring someone you trust with you.
You may then be taken to a private room where an officer will help you and explain what will happen next. An officer will take a statement from you in your own words. The police will start an investigation into the crime.
You will be given Police Form 3A to take to the nearest health facility for a medical examination. A health worker will check you thoroughly and might collect blood, hair, and other samples for DNA analysis.
The perpetrator will be arrested.
Your case will be investigated to gather evidence and a file sent to the DPPO. The public prosecutor will then decide whether to prosecute. The case might not be strong enough or there may not be enough evidence.
You may have to testify against the perpetrator in court, where they will be present as the accused. Their defence attorney will also ask you questions about what happened.
If you decide not to report a sexual assault or rape, it’s still important to seek medication to prevent HIV and unwanted pregnancy within 72 hours.
