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Bon Secours Violence Response Team
“Available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. In case of an emergency, go to the nearest Bon Secours Richmond Emergency Department.”
The Bon Secours Violence Response Team consists of specially trained forensic nurses and victim services advocates that are available at all Bon Secours Richmond hospitals and freestanding emergency departments.
When responding to a call, a forensic nurse and victim services advocate respond in tandem to victims of violence. The work of these two roles is complementary: together, they offer comprehensive care including specialized medical attention, evidence collection, emotional support, advocacy support, hospital accompaniment, follow-up phone calls and referrals for community resources.
If you or someone you know has experienced violence, we can help! We understand the emotional trauma and physical pain you may be feeling at this time, and we’re here to support you. The Bon Secours Violence Response Team including forensic nurses and victim services advocates to provide care to anyone who has experienced:
- Sexual abuse
- Physical abuse
- Strangulation
- Domestic violence/Intimate partner violence
- Human trafficking
- Child abuse and neglect
- Elder abuse and neglect
- Workplace violence
What should you do?
You can get help by going to one of the Bon Secours Emergency Departments and ask to speak with a member of the Violence Response Team (VRT). We are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
After asking to see a VRT member you can expect the following:
- First, you will be seen by the emergency department staff and receive treatment for emergent medical needs that you may be experiencing.
- Next, the forensic nurse and advocate will be consulted by the emergency department staff.
- The forensic nurse and advocate will come to the emergency department to share information about your options for reporting, collection of evidence, documentation of injuries and photographs.
- To maintain your privacy, we have a dedicated location within the hospital where you will receive l receive one-on-one supportive care in a safe and comfortable space.
- The forensic nurse and advocate will talk with you about the events that brought you to the hospital. This information helps our team to develop a plan of care with you.
Topics to be discussed may include:
- Evidence collection and photography
- Screening for sexually transmitted infections and pregnancy risks
- Medications to prevent sexually transmitted infections
- Referrals to additional resources such as counseling
- The forensic nurse and advocate will review any medications given, share the hospital discharge instructions with you and provide information for any services you wish to discuss.
For general questions, the Violence Response Team can be reached at 804-281-8574.
The Violence Response Team is available to provide education and community outreach services to bring about awareness on the impact of violence. Reach out for more information.