#Middlebury #Veterans #SexualAssaultHotline
VETERANS POST
By Freddy Groves
The Department of Veterans Affairs has just launched a special phone number to report sexual assault or harassment at VA facilities. Veterans, their caregivers, their families and survivors can call a hotline at 800-MyVA411 (800-698-2411), option 9.
The hotline is in addition to other resources, such as staff, local law enforcement and the VA police, when an assault occurs. At the hotline, which is answered 24/7, victims can confidentially report what happened and then get follow-up health care and support.
Of special interest to me was the Bystander Intervention Training (www.va.gov/STOP-HARASSMENT/bystander-intervention-techniques.asp). It teaches specific verbal and action skills if you spot a sexual assault or harassment occurring. These steps are not especially physical, but they are effective at intervening. Click on the one-minute videos with animated cartoons showing just what to do or say in each instance. (I admit, I learned several things about intervention.)
There is Direct action (speaking up), Distract (pretend you know the victim and intervene), Delegate (get someone else involved so you can find help) and Document (write down what happened). Look at the Bystander Intervention Training for Veterans online course to learn what to do if you see harassment or sexual assault.
Also click on the Gauging Harmful Behavior section and learn what is and isn’t considered unwelcome sexual advances, disrespectful, over the line, rude, mild flirting, and what might also escalate from acceptable to sexually violent behavior. Knowing these things can make you more effective when it comes to intervening in a potential assault.
The hotline number is one to become familiar with and perhaps carry in your wallet. It’s the one number you need for all kinds of VA-related things, including the crisis line, homeless veterans help (try to call them before becoming homeless), cemetery and burial information, facility locator, health care, benefits assistance, education info, caregiver support – all things veteran. If you don’t know who to call, call the hotline.
© 2023 King Features Synd., Inc.
