Crucial steps to take in case of a rape

If you have been raped or sexually assaulted, you may be both physically and emotionally affected. Only you can decide what you feel up to doing in the following hours, days or weeks.

Safety first

The first thing you need to do is go somewhere you feel safe, such as the home of a close friend or family member. If you feel you're able to, you should consider telling someone you trust what has happened. You shouldn't feel ashamed or to blame for what has happened to you.

People you can talk to or organizations you can contact if you have been raped or sexually assaulted are:

• A friend or family member

• Staff at a sexual assault referral centre like the GVRC

• You can dial Health Assistance Kenya on the toll free number 1195 for adults and 166 for children and they will out you in touch with organizations that can assist you

If you speak to someone from an organization, they will be able to give you support and advice over the telephone. You don't have to give them your name if you don't want to.

The sexual assault referral centre will give you support and advice, and can carry out a forensic medical examination, as well as tests for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and pregnancy.

Even if you are unsure whether to report the crime to the police, it is advisable to get some medical support after a rape or sexual assault. You may have injuries that need to be treated. It is also advisable to get guidance about emergency contraception and sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

All doctors and nurses will deal with your medical needs confidentially, and they will not inform the police without your permission. However, your personal doctor will have to record any tests and the results in your medical record.

If you think you might report the crime to the police, you should tell a doctor or nurse so they can arrange for some forensic swabs to be taken that could be used as evidence. You can have the swabs taken and still decide not to go to the police.