How to avoid it, report it and get help

Some situations can make you a victim of violence.

WE URGE YOU TO BE VERY CAREFUL WHEN MEETING PEOPLE, AND TO FOLLOW THESE SIMPLE GUIDELINES:

• Exchange telephone numbers with the person proposing a meeting
• Keep this number at home and, if possible, share it with someone you trust.
• Talk to the person on the phone or on video before going to the meeting place.
• If possible, choose a place you know and where you can end the meeting if you feel uncomfortable.
• It's safer to be able to see the person through a window or a door peephole before you open the door. Don't leave the door open in advance
  
• Check whether your cell phone allows you to pre-configure emergency calls or text messages that you can trigger discreetly (Here are tutorials for configuring this option on Iphone and Android)

IT'S IMPORTANT THAT ANY ACTS OF VIOLENCE OR HOMOPHOBIA YOU EXPERIENCE ARE REPORTED TO THE APPROPRIATE AUTHORITIES:

• The Federal Police via their website or by calling 101 for urgent police assistance. If you need urgent medical care, dial 112.
• Unia via their reporting form
• A report for LGBTQIphobia can also be made via Rainbow House Brussels

IF YOU NEED SUPPORT AS A RESULT OF THESE ACTS, YOU CAN CALL ON THE SERVICES OF EX AEQUO:

• Our Mental Health Service
• To find an LGBTfriendly professional, write to ttbm@exaequo.be, specifying the city where you live and that you'd like to see a psychotherapist.

You can also contact your nearest Sexual Assault Center (SAC).

And if you need to take your mind off things, Entre Potes activities are open to you too!

Let's take care of ourselves!