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APPENDIX INNLEDNING
4.8 The way forward
Aim . To summarise guidance for helpers .
Below are some of the basic principles described in this manual . It can be helpful to keep them in mind when working with survivors .
• Sexual violence is a human rights violation and must be understood in those terms .
• Traumatic events cause grief and pain , and often generate overwhelming trauma memories that survivors are not able to control .
• Intrusive memories influence both the present and the future .
• Reactions in connection with traumatic events should be understood as survival mechanisms .
• Trauma reactions can be recognised and identified .
• Recognise the value of your knowledge and expertise when you work with survivors .
• Some steps are especially important when approaching a survivor of traumatic abuse or violence .
• Ask if he will accept help and say that it is his choice whether he wants to talk or not .
• Facilitate in a way that reassures the survivor that you are there with them .
• Never be intrusive and always keep a respectful distance .
• Talk to the survivor in a respectful and “ non-pushy ” way . Talk generally about his experience or tell one of the five stories from this manual .
• Always make sure that the survivor continues to accept your presence .
• Communicate your understanding of his situation and experience . Where you can , carefully explain possible reasons for or ways of understanding his reactions .
• Provide specific and practical forms of help , if you can , such as accompanying or referring him to a nurse or mental health specialist .
• Before you arrange for him to tell his story , make sure you can be present to follow up afterwards .
• Help the survivor to breathe calmly ; help him to do exercises from the manual .
• Make sure the survivor receives the health care he needs .
• Make use of the skills you have learned .