Statewide Sexual Assault and Domestic Violence Resources and Hotlines

Navigating these situations can be overwhelming. Use this guide to be connected with help.

If you are unsure what type of assistance you need, a good first place to start would be to contact SafeLink, the statewide 24/7 domestic violence hotline, or your local Rape Crisis Center. For survivors who are deaf or hard of hearing, please see the information below regarding the Deaf Survivors Program. If you are a person with a disability, please see the Disabled Persons Protection Commissions, Sexual Assault Response Unit information below. These programs can help identify the next best steps based on your situation.

SafeLink

SafeLink is a confidential 24/7 statewide domestic violence hotline that can connect you to local support based on your needs. SafeLink’s state-of-the-art technology allows the advocate answering your call to keep you on the line while you are being connected to a resource in your area, getting you help in just a single call. It is also OK to call SafeLink if you need to talk about your situation or someone else’s – you do not need to be looking for services or a shelter space. Advocates are fluent in English, Spanish, and Portuguese and have access to a service that can provide translation in more than 130 languages.

Call SafeLink at 877-785-2020 for:

• Safety planning resources for survivors to learn how they and their families can stay safe.
• A safe and confidential space in which to talk about your relationship or someone else’s.
• A direct connection to domestic violence programs across Massachusetts
• Referrals to local domestic violence and other community resources
• Support and resources for anyone who is concerned about a victim of domestic violence
• Information about domestic and dating violence

People who are Deaf and hard of hearing can reach SafeLink via video relay service by calling the main number, 877-785-2020:

• Dial 711 in Massachusetts
  • If you are calling from outside Massachusetts, dial 1-800-439-0183 for English or 1- 800-930-9252 for Spanish.
  • Ask to be connected to the hotline [phone])

Deaf Survivors Program

Deaf Survivors Program (DSP) is a statewide program. DSP provides free and confidential services for all Deaf and Hard of Hearing survivors in Massachusetts. Services include:

• 24/7 VP hotline [phone])
• 1:1 counseling services
• Group counseling services
• Medical, police, and/or court accompaniment
• Referrals to other services you may need

DSP’s counselors are all Deaf/ASL fluent. If you are not fluent in ASL or need additional accommodations such as captioning or Certified Deaf Interpreters, DSP will provide them.

Email Sabrina at [e-mail] or call our Video Phone Hotline [phone].

Deaf Survivors Program | Pathways for Change 

Sexual Assault Response Unit (SARU), Disabled Persons Protection Commission

The SARU is a state-wide specialized unit within the Disabled Persons Protection Commission that works to increase access to trauma services to adult survivors with disabilities. SARU has Navigators located regionally throughout the state to provide support, resources, and referrals as well as collaborate with partners to ensure meaningful access and reduce barriers. SARU also has Peer Support Leaders who offer peer-to-peer support using real life experiences to connect and work to promote inclusiveness through advocacy and national networking.  

Services include:

• Individual support, advocacy, and referral
• Community outreach and consultation
• Statewide collaborations
• Clinical matching

For support or additional information, please call their free 24/7 hotline at 1-800-426-9009