Crisis Center SAS Advocates

Sexual assault victims need people they can trust to help them through their most difficult time. This is the role of Sexual Assault Services (SAS) at the Crisis Center of Tampa Bay.

SAS is the compassionate alternative to a busy hospital emergency room where rape is not a "medical emergency". In our community, sexual assault survivors come to the Crisis Center. They enter through a private door and are greeted by a caring and compassionate nurse examiner and advocate. The forensic medical exam is provided at no cost to the survivor and includes medical and emotional support and connections to community resources.

The "quiet room" offers a confidential and comfortable space for the survivor, nurse and advocate to talk freely. Survivors tell their story and hear the supportive message that "it's not your fault, you are not alone and it will get better". Advocates provide crisis intervention, emotional support, and empower clients to develop a plan to cope with the trauma they've experienced.

Advocates are familiar with Florida laws, statues, and policies affecting victims' rights and are able to assist clients in completing the Victim Compensation application process as well as filing for injunctions for protection. Advocates are even available to accompany survivors to legal and medical appointments.

SAS provides urgent care to victims immediately after the assault and also long-term support. Years after an assault, a victim may experience disturbing memories triggered by a sights, sounds or smells. SAS advocates are on-call to respond with words of encouragement and support.

Any survivor can call 2-1-1 and request to speak to a sexual assault services advocate and meet with them at the Crisis Center. A simple phone call can change a life and is often the first step in the healing process.