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Media Enquiries
As a Sexual Violence Crisis Centre, RainLily believes that interviews and reports conducted with sensitivity can increase survivors' confidence and encourage them to share their experiences and opinions through the media.
If you have any inquiries or intend to interview our service users, counsellors, or social workers, we kindly request that you read the following guidelines carefully and provide relevant information.
Media Guidelines on Sexual Violence Victim-Survivor Interviews and Reporting
I. Points to note for interview requests
Please provide sufficient information to the interviewee.
Interviewee must be informed about:
Purpose of the report, message to be conveyed
Whether the interview will be audio-recorded, video-recorded or photographed
The form of publication (e.g. written article, video, etc.)
The platform of the publication (e.g. social media, newspaper, TV news, etc.)
Interview questions
Approximate time of publication
The interviewee has the right to remain anonymous or to choose a pseudonym.
Interviewees may request to be accompanied by a counsellor.
Inquire in advance if the interviewee feels uncomfortable with the gender and number of reporters and photographers.
Proactively ask the interviewee about any specific preparations or considerations they may need in advance (e.g., information to be read beforehand, content the interviewee prefers not to disclose).
II. Points to note on Interviews
Recording and photographing should only be done with the informed consent of the interviewee.
Do not conduct the interview in a judgmental, interrogative or questioning tone.
Avoid asking the interviewee to describe the details of sexual violence and pay attention to the interviewee's emotional state during the response.
Interviewees have the right to refuse to answer questions and may request a break at any time.
If the interviewee is in need of emotional support, they can be referred to appropriate support organisations for further assistance.
III. Points to note when writing article
It is recommended to provide a warning to readers about the sensitive nature of sexual violence content in the report.
e.g. "Please be aware that the article contains depictions of sexual violence that may cause discomfort to some readers."
Seek the opinions and consent of interviewees regarding the use of sensitive content and language.
Focus the content on the interviewee's journey, including their empowerment and recovery from trauma.
Use objective statements and legal terminology, avoiding explicit or sensationalistic writing, particularly in graphics, headlines, and push notifications.
Avoid providing detailed descriptions of the process of sexual violence or using footage that simulates such acts.
Avoid mentioning the interviewee's sexual history, and if it is necessary, ensure that the content aligns with the purpose of the interview, the intended message, and the interviewee's consent.
It is recommended to include information on on available resources and how to seek help.
RainLily helpline / SafeChat WhatsApp: 23755322
IV. Points to note when selecting photos
Be aware of whether it is the interviewee's consent for the photograph to focus on the interviewee's appearance or body shape.
Be aware of whether the illustrations/photographs will reinforce the stereotype of sexual violence.
If the photograph is taken in a dark place or at the back of a staircase, it may inadvertently convey a portrayal of the interviewee as weak or tragic.
Do not take and use pictures that simulate sexual violence.
A positive interview experience can contribute to the healing process of survivors of sexual violence and provide a platform for them to speak out, encouraging others to seek help.
If reports can prioritize conveying the prevalence of sexual violence and how to support survivors, while minimizing detailed descriptions of traumatic events, it not only avoids secondary harm to survivors but also enhances the significance of the coverage.