The Washington County Sexual Assault Crisis Team (SACT) recently achieved international recognition for its comprehensive approach to rape prevention and support for victims of sexual violence.

The Washington County SACT is a member agency of the Vermont Network Against Domestic and Sexual Violence, which receives funding from the Health Department. The organization was recognized in a study published by the European Parliament for its best-practice approach to addressing sexual assault.

“We applaud the Washington County team for its commitment to Vermont’s women and children and congratulate them on this international recognition of their great work,” said Acting Health Commissioner Tracy Dolan.

The Washington County SACT provides shelter and residential-based support for victims – those in the immediate aftermath of a rape, those coming to terms with past rape experience, including as a child, and those who have returned to the area to testify at trial.

Washington County SACT offers safe and secure shelter for rape victims, and a range of education and support programs designed to help residents identify, work toward and achieve goals so they are able to lead healthy lives.

The shelter takes privacy and personal safety very seriously. Residents can always lock their doors and be alone whenever they choose.

The European Parliament’s Policy Department on Citizens Rights and Constitutional Affairs commissioned the study that recognized the Washington County organization. The European Parliament, with administrative offices in Luxembourg, is the elected parliamentary institution of the European Union.

The study is available at: http://www.europarl.europa.eu/RegData/etudes/etudes/join/2013/493025/IPOL-FEMM_ET(2013)493025_EN.pdf

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month. To learn more, visit healthvermont.gov.