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SafeReach

What would help right now?

Choose the one closest to how you feel. You don't have to explain anything, and you can come back at any time.

If you were sexually assaulted recently

It was not your fault.

  • If you can, see a health worker as soon as possible. Medicine that lowers the chance of HIV (called PEP) works best when it is started quickly, and within 72 hours.
  • Emergency contraception can prevent pregnancy. Some types work up to 5 days after.
  • If you might want to report later, a health worker can explain how evidence is kept. Your health comes first, and decisions about reporting can come later.
  • Shock, numbness, shaking or panic are common reactions. Be gentle with yourself.
Find health services

Talk to someone

You can message SafeReach on WhatsApp in English, Yorùbá or Nigerian Pidgin. An automated assistant answers first and tells you it is automated. If you ask for a person, or if you may be in danger, someone from VARSH Foundation is asked to reply.

Anyone who uses your phone may be able to read the chat. You can delete it afterwards.

SafeReach's WhatsApp line is not open yet. Until it is, you can find a service directly.

If you are worried about someone else

  • Believe them. Saying “I believe you, and I am here for you” matters.
  • Don't press for details or ask why it happened. Focus on how they are now.
  • Let them decide what happens next.
  • Never confront the person who hurt them. It can put them in more danger.
  • Offer to help them reach care, or to give them a quiet moment to message SafeReach.

If you are not sure what you need

That is completely okay. You don't need to have everything worked out today. Start with one thing: are you somewhere safe right now?

If you would like, a person can talk it through with you. Reaching out does not commit you to anything.

Talk to someone