Rape Crisis Scotland Helpline

Have ready

• nothing is needed: you do not have to talk about anything you do not want to

They can

• listen and give short-term, crisis and initial support, every day 5pm to midnight, by phone on 08088 01 03 02, text on 07537 410 027, email to support@rapecrisisscotland.org.uk, or webchat on their website
• talk with you whatever happened and however long ago, and support family, friends and supporters too
• put you in touch with your local Rape Crisis Centre or other services for longer-term support
• arrange a free language interpreter, including British Sign Language; deaf people can also call free through Contact Scotland BSL, available until midnight daily

They cannot

• give long-term support: the helpline is short-term, and the site says most local Rape Crisis Centres have a waiting list
• keep everything private in every case: if you give contact details or other details that identify you and tell it that a child or young person (under 18, or under 21 if looked after or accommodated) is at risk of abuse or neglect, that a vulnerable adult is at significant risk of harm (you, or someone you know), or that you have taken action to end your life or have injuries that may put your life at risk, it would need to pass that on; you can ask the support worker about this before you share contact details
• support anyone who has been accused of sexual violence
• answer outside 5pm to midnight, or replace 999: if you are in danger, call 999