About Rape Crisis Northern Ireland
Rape Crisis Northern Ireland is a non-governmental organisation and support service for anyone aged 16 and over who has experienced rape or serious sexual assault in adulthood.
Vision Statement
We envisage a community free from all forms of sexual violence, abuse and exploitation.
Mission Statement
Within a framework of equality and human rights, our purpose is to provide support to survivors/victims of all forms of sexual violence, abuse and exploitation.
We do this to ensure everyone can live free from the causes and consequences of sexual abuse. We will work ethically to challenge and prevent rape, sexual violence and associated myths. We empower by providing support, education, information and advocacy.
Our Values
Equality
Equality is a fundamental human right; we recognise that discrimination occurs against gender, religion, age, disability and sexual orientation. We are committed to fighting for gender equality and strive for inclusivity for all.
Empowerment
We empower survivors to make their own choices. We support them without pressure or influence in exploring their options.
Respect
At Rape Crisis Northern Ireland people will be treated with dignity and respect and believed without judgement.
Trust
People can trust us to provide a safe space and work with integrity. We work transparently and honestly within the limitations of confidentiality and personal safety.
Commitment to Good Practice
We are committed to delivering a free high quality and ethical professional service.
Our Principles
• We believe that sexual violence is an abuse of power, not an expression of love or desire.
• We refer to individuals who have been raped or sexually abused as both 'victims' and 'survivors' and we empower them to decide which term they prefer.
• We believe what survivors/victims tell us. Furthermore, we firmly believe that rape is never the fault of the survivor and we actively seek to challenge this myth.
• We celebrate diversity. We work from an anti-discriminatory perspective and acknowledge that people come from many different backgrounds. Our service is open to all.
• We understand that we live in a society where dominant ideas about gender limit the freedom of women, children and LGBTQ+ community and perpetuate stereotypes of masculinity for men to live up to.
Most importantly we offer a safe space where you will never be judged and will always be believed.
Confidentiality and Safeguarding
Rape Crisis Northern Ireland operates a confidential service and you have a right to confidentiality. Wherever possible we will let you know if there is anything we can’t keep confidential. If it is felt that confidentiality needs to be broken, we will generally try and discuss this with you first.
These are the only times when confidentiality may be broken:
• If you tell us that a child or vulnerable adult is at risk of harm.
• When there is a serious risk of harm to you or another person.
• When there is a court order or other legal requirements.
