Frequently Asked Questions About Support
You can call or email us and ask us any questions you have about support or any of our services. We hope the following frequently asked questions will answer your question but please contact us if you want to know more. All questions are welcome and we will always answer them the best we can.
Do I have to talk about what happened to me?
Many people think that coming for support means talking about what happened. Your story is yours, and you do not have to talk about what happened to you at any point in Support. Many survivors want to focus on the impact their experience have had on their lives. Some survivors find it helpful to talk about what happened, some don’t. There is no right way or wrong way to engage with Support, what is important is that you gain a benefit from the process.
Will I have the same Support Worker each time?
Yes, Support is provided by the same worker each session. This is to reduce the number of times you have to go over any subject and have continuity throughout your time at RASAC P&K.
Where will I get Support?
It is your choice; at the Centre in Perth (face to face) or in another location your feel comfortable such as your home, private space in your school or a community building. We can also provide Support by phone, email, or video. We put you at the centre of your support, so we will always try to accommodate your needs and what makes you feel comfortable.
How do I tell you how I feel about my Support?
We encourage feedback from all of our survivors. This not only helps us improve our services but also ensures that you get the support that you need. All feedback is welcome, from how we can improve our premises and the welcome we provide, to how your support sessions are going to any improvement that can be made to ensure you get the most out of support. You can provide this feedback directly to your support worker, or if you don't feel comfortable speaking to her you can email us or drop an anonymous form in our feedback box. As we are a person-centred service we want you to have the support you need, you make all the choices around your support, including what is explored, what feelings are spoken about and even who supports you.
What is an Initial Appointment?
An initial appointment is your first appointment with us. It is a short appointment, where we find out a little about you and what type of support or service you may benefit from. Once this appointment is completed you are placed on the waiting list for the service that you have chosen.
What happens in Support?
Support is a safe place for you to talk about what you want to talk about, you lead each session. Support can be a space for you to be listened to without judgment or pressure, it can also include looking at coping strategies, and memory work but everyone will have their own unique experience of Support.
What if I don’t think support is for me after I start?
As we are a person-centred service, you make your choices every step of the way. If you decide you want to stop support for any reason, we will respect your wishes. This can happen for many reasons; home life is too busy, talking about it feels overwhelming just now, you are focusing on work. However, you can re-refer at any time in the future if you feel that you are ready.
I don’t feel safe around men, is your centre women only?
We are a women’s centre; however we occasionally have men in the centre. Sometimes for professional meetings with RASAC P&K Staff or family members of survivors. We also support boys between the ages of 12-18. However, we also have ‘women only’ protected times where there are no men on the premises. If you feel safer knowing that men won’t be on the premises, we can always arrange your appointment during these protected hours. Just let us know.
When I tell people what happened to me, they can’t handle it, how do I know I can trust you with my story?
All our support team have had extensive training in understanding sexual violence, in all its forms, before they ever provide any support. There is very little we have not heard before and we never make judgement of your life experiences, coping strategies and the choices you make. You are the expert in the room when it comes to your life and are here to listen, believe and support.
