No matter who you are, as a caring member of the Carolina community, the first thing you should do is listen and offer your support. Each of us, depending on our roles, has different responsibilities and requirements in responding to the situation.
As a Student
Most survivors of interpersonal violence tell at least one other person — typically a friend — about their experience. The best thing you can do for any survivor who reaches out to you is to listen, believe and offer empathic, compassionate support. As a survivor's support person, you have the opportunity to positively affect their healing process.
As an Employee
As a university employee, you have an obligation and a legal duty to assist survivors and report interpersonal violence, including sexual assault, intimate partner violence and stalking. The university offers a list of steps to guide you and information on why you are required to report interpersonal violence, as well as additional training opportunities.