Sexual Assault Resources

Advocacy

The University of Washington offers free advocacy and support for students and employees impacted by sexual assault, relationship violence, domestic violence, stalking, sexual harassment, and other related experiences. Advocacy is a safe and confidential starting point for any student or employee affected by these issues. Meeting with an advocate does not trigger any investigation or formal reporting or complaint process.

What to expect

If you choose to work with an advocate, you may expect to:

  • Share as much or as little information as you would like.
  • Learn about common reactions to sexual assault, relationship violence, domestic violence, stalking, sexual harassment, trauma, and other experiences.
  • Discuss options and resources for medical care.
  • Discuss how you can take care of yourself and discover options to begin the healing process whether through counseling, stress reduction techniques, support groups, and/or other resources.
  • Make a safety plan.
  • Learn about your rights and reporting options.
    • Discuss making a formal complaint to the University through the Title IX Investigation Office or the University Complaint Investigation and Resolution Office (UCIRO). The advocate is available to help support you through any reporting process you choose.
    • Discuss making a report to the police. The advocate is available to help support you throughout this process.
  • Learn about civil protection orders, an option external to the University.
  • Discuss how your experience may have affected work or school and how the advocate can help by working with your professors.
  • Learn about other community resources.
  • Make a holistic plan for managing the impact of this experience at UW.