If you have been sexually assaulted, whether as an adult or a young person, it is important to remember that it wasn’t your fault. Sexual violence is a crime, no matter who commits it or where it happens. Don’t be afraid to get help.

A sexual assault is any sexual act that a person did not consent to, or is forced into against their will. It is a form of sexual violence and includes rape, or other sexual offences, such as groping, forced kissing, child sexual abuse or the torture of a person in a sexual manner.

It is not uncommon for a victim of sexual assault to have no physical injuries or signs of their assault. But sexual assault is still a crime and should be reported to the police in the same way as other crimes.

Most sexual assaults are carried out by someone known to the victim. This could be a partner, former partner, relative, friend or colleague. The assault may happen in many places, but is usually in the victim’s home or the home of the perpetrator.

“Sexual violence or assault can happen to anyone of any age: men, women and children,” says Bernie Ryan, manager at St Mary’s Sexual Assault Referral Centre in Manchester. “For the victim, the extent of the sexual assault is no indication of how distressing they find it, or how violated they feel. It’s important that anyone affected receives the right advice and support.”

If you’ve been sexually assaulted or are the victim of sexual abuse

If you’ve been sexually assaulted, there are services that can help. You don’t have to report the assault to police if you don’t want to. You may need time to think about what has happened to you. However, consider getting medical help as soon as possible, because you may be at risk of pregnancy or sexually transmitted infections (STIs). If you want the crime to be investigated, the sooner a forensic medical examination takes place, the better.

Try not to wash or change your clothes immediately after a sexual assault. This may destroy forensic evidence that could be important if you decide to report the assault to the police.

Where you go for help will depend on what’s available in your area and what you want to do. For specialist medical attention and sexual violence support, whether you decide to have a forensic medical examination or not, your first point of call is a sexual assault referral centre (SARC).

The following services will also provide treatment or support, and can refer you to another service if you need more specialist help (such as a SARC):

• NHS 111
• A doctor at your local GP surgery
• National Domestic Violence Helpline is free and available 24 hours a day: 0808 2000 247
• Rape Crisis is free: on 0808 802 9999 (12-2.30pm and 7-9.30pm every day of the year)
• Women’s Aid, Victim Support, The Survivors Trust or Survivors UK (for male victims of sexual assault)
• The University’s Counselling Service
• In an emergency, dial 999, or dial 101 for the police or you can go to you local A&E department
• You can also contact Crimestoppers

 

*source NHS