Access & Inclusion
SACL is committed to supporting and advocating for any person who has been impacted by sexual violence and/or harm.
We understand that there are many aspects of a person's identity, life experience, and circumstances that may impact how they can access support.
People may have experienced discrimination and exclusion from services and be concerned that this could happen again.
This may include people who identify as:
- Culturally and linguistically diverse
- First Nations
- Living with a disability
- Living regionally and rurally
- LGBTQIA+
- Older adults
- Neurodivergent
- Sex workers
SACL understands that it can be hard to reach out for support, especially if you have experienced discrimination, judgement, or stigma, or if you are feeling in crisis.
We will ask if there is anything you would like to share about your identity or communication needs that may help us support you.
If English is not your first language, or you would feel more comfortable speaking in another language, we can arrange a free and confidential interpreter to support the call.
If you are deaf or hard-of-hearing, there are a number of ways you can contact SACL and access support
- National Relay Service (NRS) Chat (Type + Read): Use the NRS app for chat website to type messages that the Relay Officer reads to the Counsellor/Advocate
- SMS Relay: Send a text to 0423 677 767 with the crisis line number (1800 806 292)
- Video Relay (Auslan): Connect via Microsoft Teams to a Relay Officer who interprets between Auslan and spoken English (available Mon-Fri 7am-6pm, Sat 8am-12pm AEST)
- Voice Relay: If you can speak but have difficulty hearing, call 1300 555 727 and ask to be connected to the crisis line number (1800 806 292)
- TTY (Teletypewriter): Dial 133 677 and provide the crisis line number (1800 806 292).
SACL recognises that neurodivergent people may have different ways of processing information, expressing experiences, and communicating their needs.
You will be asked if there are any communication or other needs that will support you, and you can tell us what best works for you.
- Processing Information: SACL understands that trauma can imact how people take in and process information. We will slow things down, use plain language, and give you time.
- Time for decision making: We will go at your pace and allow time for responses and decisions, without rushing you.
- Communication style: We aim to use clear, direct communication.
- Grounding and overwhelm: We can check what helps you feel grounded, allow time to access sensory supports, adjust your environment, and take breaks if needed.
SACL will listen and learn what works best for you.
Feedback
SACL continues to develop and learn how best to support people according to their individual identity and situation.
You are welcome to provide feedback on how we can strengthen our support.
