Who is primarily responsible for ensuring victims understand all service and support options available to them?

The Sexual Assault Response Coordinators (SARCs) have a primary role in ensuring that victims of sexual assault are informed about all available services and support options. SARCs are trained professionals who serve as the key point of contact for victims, providing them with critical information about resources such as medical care, counseling, legal assistance, and reporting options.

Their expertise allows them to guide victims through the various available avenues for support, ensuring that individuals can make informed decisions about their next steps. This role is essential as it centers on creating a supportive environment for victims, helping them navigate what can often be a complex and overwhelming process.

While victim advocates, commanding officers, and legal counsel also play important roles in supporting victims, they do not have the same primary responsibility for ensuring that victims fully understand their options to the extent that SARCs do. SARCs are specifically trained to focus on the needs and rights of the victim, making them the primary resource for sharing crucial information and offering a compassionate approach to the victim's experience.