Sexual Violence support service.

[SensibleSigma]

They won’t prearrange a time to talk, but will make a note of your availability then telephone randomly from a withheld number.

AIBU to think that’s really unhelpful? I want to prepare myself, and I don’t want to worry about the phone the rest of the time.

I specifically requested email contact. Now I’m all unsettled and flustered after answering the phone to someone wanting to talk about sexual violence I’ve suffered.

AIBU to think that’s insensitive, and not fit for purpose?! It’s not like booking in with the dentist, for goodness sake.

I’m upset. I’m upset that I’m not going to be able to get any support without opening myself up to phone calls at unexpected, unpredictable times.
I’m upset that my quiet afternoon has been brought face to face with sexual violence I try and keep contained in my day to day life.

AIBU? Is that a sensible way to operate?

OP I'm sorry you've been sexually assaulted 💐

I'm not sure what's going on but you can contact the Survivors Trust, Rape Crisis or go to a Sexual assault referral centre (SARCs) which offer medical, practical and emotional support.

It’s the local service I was directed to self refer to. It’s historic, and neatly boxed away at the back of my mind. I have resisted looking at it but thought it may be time, just so I can draw a line under it.
I may not bother. It’s not something I’d want to be confronting unexpectedly.

I was really surprised they were so cavalier about it. I don’t think I can be unusual in not wanting unpredictable phone calls?

OP deal with it in whatever way works for you. I recommend a chat with the Survivor's Trust, they have a good helpline and can recommend specialist therapy, if that's what you want: 0808 801 0818

Of course you'd be upset at unpredictable phone calls.

I'm sorry you are going through this.

Please if you do speak to them please raise your complaints about how insensitive the process is( if you feel able obviously).

I strongly believe the people who put together these schemes come from a massively privileged place of never having gone through the trauma first hand.

Massive be strong vibes 💪 sending your way. Do what you feel is best to heal.

Thank you. The email they have now sent is not bad. It lists the support available after the assessment process. It’s the first step which is so off putting.

I will complain, whether I go forward with their service or not. I can’t imagine a scenario where it’s ok to get a phone call that hasn’t been prearranged. Still. There we are.