What does PREA standard 115.53(a) require regarding outside victim advocates?

• A. Inmates must be provided access to outside victim advocates for emotional support via telephone numbers and mailing addresses
• B. The Department must provide on-site counseling only
• C. The Department must provide group therapy
• D. The Department may provide external resources only upon request

Answer: (A)

Access to independent support from outside victim advocates is required. Outside victim advocates are professionals or organizations not affiliated with the facility who can provide emotional support and help victims navigate the reporting and investigative process, all while maintaining confidentiality. The standard specifies that inmates must be able to contact these advocates, which means providing access through actual contact information such as telephone numbers and mailing addresses. That’s why the best answer is the option that ensures inmates have direct, external support available to them.

The other options don’t fit because they imply internal or reactive services only—on-site counseling, group therapy, or giving resources only when asked—which do not satisfy the requirement to provide ongoing access to outside, independent victim advocates for emotional support.