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Violence And Sexual Offences

✅ Article By Anne-Marie Pearman & Reviewed By Zeynep Topcu

Violence and Sexual assault are very severe crimes that can affect anyone, regardless of gender. It includes various acts that make you uncomfortable, frightened, or disobeyed. If you've experienced any of the following against your will, you're the victim of rape or sexual assault:

  • Touching sexually without consent that makes you feel uncomfortable or frightened.
  • Receiving explicit images via email, social media, or phone (commonly known as 'sexting').
  • Being forced to witness sexual acts.
  • Coercion into making or watching pornography.

Support And Help For The Victim Of A Sexual Crime

If you've been a victim of violence or sexual assault, remember you are not alone; support and help are always available.

Things you can do if the offence has recently happened:

  1. Preserve Evidence: Keep the clothes you were wearing and avoid washing them. The Police may need them for their investigation. Also, refrain from bathing or showering, as crucial Evidence can be lost.
  2. Seek Safety: Go to a safe place, like the home of a trusted friend or family member. Your well-being is a priority.
  3. Safeguard yourself: Lock doors and windows. Consider changing locks if necessary. If you know the person, make it clear they are not welcome at your home and that you want no further contact. If they appear and you feel in immediate danger, call 999.
  4. Access Support: Seek medical assistance, including guidance on the morning-after pill and potential sexually transmitted infections. The SAFE Centre is also available to provide support.

How to report rape or sexual offence

If you have been raped, sexually assaulted or harassed, call 101 or 999 in an emergency to report the crime to the Police.

If you choose to report, you'll be assigned a serious sexual offence trained officer. These experts are available 24/7 and will guide you through further steps.

Alternative support

Reporting such incidents can be challenging for various reasons; if you cannot report it to the Police, tell someone you trust. You can also speak to your family members.

If you do not wish to report the matter to the Police, you must receive medical attention, so please ensure you visit a hospital, your GP, or sexual health clinic.

Alternatively, you can access more support through the links below:

All Crime Types

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