Victims of sexual assault might soon have new support system available to them as part of a new volunteer initiative from Avalon.
Avalon: A Center for Women and Children provides shelter and support to those experiencing domestic violence or sexual assault in the area. Their new Hospital Accompaniment Program would offer women admitted to the hospital the chance to immediately meet with an advocate from the organization.
Currently, Avalon relies on hospitals to let them know when a victim of sexual assault has been admitted. If that person opts to receive help from Avalon, a staff member who is available will arrive to provide emotional or legal support.
The new program would instruct a team of volunteers in the issues and resources available to victims. With 32 hours of training under their belts, this group would be on call in a calendar rotation, ready to jump into action when cases are reported. In addition to explaining Avalon’s services, the volunteers might console or act as silent support for someone in a traumatic situation.
Immediacy is important when assisting victims, said Bridget Casey, director of development and communication at Avalon. She said the center is working with the hospital and law enforcement to receive word quickly about a person in need, with a volunteer readily available.
“This is our way to get to people right when it’s happening, so they can make the most informed choices on how to proceed,” Casey said.
Victims of sexual assault might not live with their attackers and need a safe shelter space like those of domestic violence. Program volunteers can explain the non-residential services of Avalon, including counseling, support groups and legal advocacy.
The program is expected to begin mid-April.
Training begins March 15, following a volunteer orientation session at 6 p.m. Thursday. Anyone interested in participating the program for the spring must attend the orientation, and are asked to confirm their attendance in advance to ensure proper materials and space are available. Contact [email protected] or [email protected], or 258-5022.
For more information about Avalon and their services, visit their website.
