sexual assault resources

National Hotlines & Links

National Sexual Assault Hotline: 800-656-HOPE (4673)

This is the national sexual assault hotline that people can call to reach locally trained staff members, as well as an online hotline wherein people can chat instead of call. The calls and chats are confidential and not recorded, and they will not ask for identifying information. They provide support, a person to talk to, and point people toward resources/referrals.

National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-787-7233 

This is the national domestic violence hotline that people can call or text to receive care and support for people to feel safe and learn more about domestic violence. This hotline provides support to victims, friends, and family of potential victims, and even abusers seeking to reform themselves. 

1in6: 1-800-656-4673

  • Online Website: 1in6.org
  • Online Weekly Chat Room Available

1in6 is a nonprofit that provides support groups, information, and news specifically for male survivors of sexual assault and allies. 

VictimConnect Hotline:  8.55.4.VICTIM (855-484-2846)

This is a weekday hotline (available from Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm) for victims of crimes to learn about their rights, potential resources available to them, and services and referrals. Each referral is tailored to what the individual needs specifically and spans local, state, and even national organizations. 

Austin-Specific 

24-Hour Hotline: 512-472-HELP (4357)

This is a 24-hour hotline that provides crisis support and access to Integral Care’s services and programs. Integral Care is the Local Mental Health and Intellectual and Developmental Disability Authority, working in Travis County. 

Youth Help Line: 512-735-2400

This is a helpline through LifeWorks, an organization in Austin providing services for youth and their families, especially psychiatric and housing services to children and youth. People can call during LifeWorks hours to get put in touch with staff members and available resources for them. 

SAFE Alliance: 512-267-SAFE (7233)

  • Can also text 737-888-7233 

This hotline has crisis intervention specialists trained to receive calls dealing with sexual abuse and violence, among others, and also provides a relay/VRS for the deaf and blind community. They can help build safety plans, make referrals for shelters, and put victims in contact with forensic nurses and advocates (unaffiliated with law enforcement), providing free forensic exams. 

Texas Advocacy Project: 800-374-HOPE (4673)

The Texas Advocacy Project provides survivors with free legal services and access to the justice system, along with preventative programs through public outreach and education. The hotline can be called for legal advice, support with legal filing processes, and client representation, all completely free. 

Useful Readings

About Sexual Assault: describes what sexual violence is, as well as the various forms and impacts of it, and some important statistics 

Recovering from Sexual Violence: provides various specific resources for victims as well as loved ones 

What to Expect from a Forensic Exam: describes what occurs during an exam in detail for people to prepare themselves and know what to expect