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14 June 2018 Photo iStock
Dealing with the trauma of sexual assault

University life is supposed to be one of the most enjoyable times of a person’s life. Unfortunately, for some this is the time they may fall victims to sexual assault.
 
The term sexual assault has shockingly become normalised in society and has become a common threat to university students. The University of the Free State (UFS) through its sexual harassment, sexual misconduct, and sexual violence policy strongly condemns any form of sexual abuse. Dr Melissa Barnaschone, Director at Student Counselling and Development (UFS) says the university cares for the health and wellbeing of students and provides necessary support for victims of sexual assault and trauma.
 
It is unfortunate that sexual assault comes with many misconceptions that often shift responsibility and blame from the perpetrator to the victim. “It is important to always remember that it is not your fault; do not blame yourself,” says Dr Barnaschone. Helpguide.Org: Trusted guide to mental & emotional health says sexual assault leaves psychological wounds and sometimes long-lasting health challenges. Such trauma can severely affect a person’s ability to cope with daily academic, social, professional, and personal responsibilities.
 
Any sexual violence is a crime and as a victim, you are not to blame. Healing is achieved when you start to believe that you are not responsible for what happened to you. Visit Helpguide.Org for more information on post-traumatic stress disorder, trauma recovery tips and other related topics.

On this video clip, Dr Barnaschone shares some guidelines to deal with sexual assault and trauma: 

News Archive

UFS Law Clinic produces high quality attorneys
2012-02-24

 
Samantha Britz, Shawn Phillips and Roxanne van Niekerk
Photo: Leonie Bolleurs
24 February 2012


The UFS Law Clinic in our Faculty of Law is proud of the three candidate attorneys who have been admitted to the High Court in Bloemfontein.

Samantha Britz, Shawn Phillips and Roxanne van Niekerk completed their studies at the UFS, as well as their acticled clerkships. According to advocate Inez Bezuidenhout of the UFS Law Clinic, the trio - now admitted attorneys – are true homegrown products.

The youth support programme of the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development made it possible for the UFS Law Clinic to appoint candidate attorneys in 2009 and 2010. Samantha, Shawn and Roxanne did community service under supervision of the Law Clinic, as well as providing legal services to disadvantaged members of the greater Bloemfontein area.
 

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