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Important Text and Chat Service Update: Beginning on January 11th, 2021, the statewide text/chat service will be unavailable, while undergoing maintenance. Please check back here for updates on those services. Our free, private, 24-hour sexual assault crisis and support helpline continues to be available at 1-800-871-7741. SARSSM provides free services in York and Cumberland Counties. While we are away please feel free to utilize these resources from RAINN: rainn.org Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741 |
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How can our services help?
How does the text/chat work? What can I expect?
This works like other instant messaging services you may have seen. It has more safety & security features. You will enter a live private chat session with a trained advocate and begin sending messages to each other. The chat is completely anonymous. You can share what you would like. During your chat, the advocate will listen, support you, and help you find resources. When you want to end the chat, click “End Chat.” The chat window will disappear, and your conversation will be deleted. No record of your conversation will be kept. You can also choose to click the “Quick Escape” button anytime during a chat. The button will end the chat and send you to the Google homepage.
Will you have to report if I tell you what happened?
We are what is called mandated reporters. That means we have to follow Maine state reporting laws. If we think you are under 18 and you tell us any information that makes us think you are being abused or neglected, we may have to share this with other adults to help keep you safe. But, we will never ask you for identifying information. You can share what you feel comfortable sharing.
When will the text/chat helpline be available?
Advocates will be on the text/chat helpline during weekdays (Monday through Friday) from 8am to 11pm. Any changes to these hours will be posted on this page.
How much do text/chat services cost?
It costs as much as other texts you send and get. Other data costs may apply when you use chat services from your cell phone or tablet.
Will text/chat services appear on my phone bill?
It depends on your phone company. Someone reading your phone bill may be able to see that you have texted with us. Please consider this when thinking about your privacy and safety.
- Free, private support from a trained sexual assault advocate.
- A chance to talk about what happened, how you’re feeling, and what may you need now.
- Information & resources that can help you with next steps in healing and recovery.
- Referrals for longer-term support where you live (mental health help, legal, police, or healthcare).
How does the text/chat work? What can I expect?
This works like other instant messaging services you may have seen. It has more safety & security features. You will enter a live private chat session with a trained advocate and begin sending messages to each other. The chat is completely anonymous. You can share what you would like. During your chat, the advocate will listen, support you, and help you find resources. When you want to end the chat, click “End Chat.” The chat window will disappear, and your conversation will be deleted. No record of your conversation will be kept. You can also choose to click the “Quick Escape” button anytime during a chat. The button will end the chat and send you to the Google homepage.
Will you have to report if I tell you what happened?
We are what is called mandated reporters. That means we have to follow Maine state reporting laws. If we think you are under 18 and you tell us any information that makes us think you are being abused or neglected, we may have to share this with other adults to help keep you safe. But, we will never ask you for identifying information. You can share what you feel comfortable sharing.
When will the text/chat helpline be available?
Advocates will be on the text/chat helpline during weekdays (Monday through Friday) from 8am to 11pm. Any changes to these hours will be posted on this page.
How much do text/chat services cost?
It costs as much as other texts you send and get. Other data costs may apply when you use chat services from your cell phone or tablet.
Will text/chat services appear on my phone bill?
It depends on your phone company. Someone reading your phone bill may be able to see that you have texted with us. Please consider this when thinking about your privacy and safety.
