Gatehouse

If your child has experienced sexual harm and you/they would like to speak with someone, you can contact Gatehouse Monday–Friday 9am–5pm on (03) 9345 6391. Our sexual assault workers can talk to you about:

• Getting support from our service for you and your child.
• Telling the police about the sexual assault.
• Your child's medical rights.

Please note: We work with children and families who live in Brimbank, Melton, Moonee Valley, Maribyrnong, Melbourne, Hobsons Bay and Wyndham LGAs or are current patients at The Royal Children's Hospital (RCH). If you live in another area, find your local service on the Sexual Assault Services Victoria website.

When you contact Gatehouse or another specialist sexual assault service you and your child will:

• Be believed.
• Be treated with respect and understanding.
• Be informed of your rights.
• Get information.
• Be in control of decision making.
• Have privacy and confidentiality.

Police

You/your child can choose to make a report to the police about being sexually assaulted. It is important to know that you don’t have to do this. We understand it can be hard to talk about.

If you/your child decide to report their sexual assault to the police, there is a ‘Police Code of Practice’ in place to ensure your child feels safe and supported. The Police will then:

• Take you/your child to the RCH (or Monash Children's Hospital if closer) within two hours of the sexual assault – if you/your child want to.
• Give your child time to rest and receive any medical attention you need before they give a report.
• Provide you and your child with information about rights and places to get help from.
• Keep you updated on the progress of their investigation.
• Provide you with written reasons why a decision is made not to proceed with legal action against the person accused if you ask for this.