Accompaniments
Hospital accompaniments: Certified RCIS staff members and advocates are available 24/7 to accompany victim-survivors of sexual violence who go to Carroll Hospital for treatment after a sexual assault and/or to receive a Sexual Assault Forensic Examination (SAFE). We do not offer medical or legal advice, but we can help you and your loved ones understand the process and all of your options. Our role at the hospital is to be a supportive and informed bystander throughout a challenging experience, should the victim-survivor need one. We bring a small gift bag containing resources, hygiene items, and a hand-knit scarf from our Threads of Compassion program to each victim-survivor. You are not obligated to speak with an advocate or have them present during any part of your time at the hospital, but they will be there for you if you choose.
Police accompaniments: Certified RCIS staff members and advocates are available to support victim-survivors as they move through the police interview and investigation processes. We do not offer legal advise, and may not be able to accompany you into the interview room itself, but we can provide other support and resources on-site. Please contact our office at (410) 857-0900 if you are in need of police accompaniment services.
Throughout the year, we offer trainings to law enforcement officers and other first responders on trauma-informed responses to sexual assault and other topics. These trainings include information on how advocates can support the investigative process. If you are a first responder and are interested in learning more, please contact our office at (410) 857-0900.
Court accompaniments: Certified RCIS staff members and advocates are available to accompany victim-survivors to court proceedings relating to their experiences of sexual violence, such as peace or protective order hearings or criminal trial. We do not offer legal advice, but we can be there to be a supportive and informed bystander during a difficult time. Please contact our office if you are in need of court accompaniment services.
Other accompaniment services: Certified RCIS staff members and advocates are available to support victim-survivors going through school-based or other processes. Please contact our office for more information.