What is it?
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 (an assault involving penetration of the vagina, anus or mouth), or other sexual offences, such as groping, forced kissing, child sexual abuse or the torture of a person in a sexual manner.
Sexual assault is an act that is carried out without the victim’s active consent. This means they didn’t agree to it.
It is not uncommon for a victim of sexual assault to have no physical injuries or signs of their assault.
Sexual Assault Referral Centre
Sexual assault referral centres are independent medical centres not linked to police. They offer a private, safe, discrete and caring environment designed for all survivors of sexual assault - including men, women and children. These centres offer medical, practical and emotional support to anyone who has been sexually assaulted or raped. They have specially trained doctors and counsellors to care for you. If you're considering reporting the assault to the police, they can arrange for you to have an informal talk with a specially trained police officer who can explain what’s involved.
Rape Myths
Rape myths are a set of stereotypes and misunderstandings present in society about the crime of rape. Rape myths are present for all aspects of rape- what rape is, who perpetrates rape, and who is a victim of rape. These myths are harmful and promote misunderstanding, victim-blaming and undermine a victim’s confidence to report the crime. Some common rape myths are outlined and challenged below. A more comprehensive list of rape myths, the damaging effects of them, and why they are simply untrue, is available on the Crown Prosecution Service Website.
Examples of rape myths include misconceptions that rape is influenced by the way someone dresses, their sexual activity in other circumstances, their sexuality, their cultural background or any other socio-economic factors. It is also often not understood that victims displaying signs of sexual arousal during a rape does not affect that it is a crime- people may still biologically respond to stimuli even if traumatic and unwanted. None of these things are consent and these types of myths discourage some victims from reporting, and also perpetuate a culture of victim-blaming. Crucially, only the perpetrator is responsible for a rape, and NOT the victim.
Other misconceptions include that rape is always a violent and forceful attack by a stranger, when in reality rape can be perpetrated by someone the victim knows in a place that feels safe, and can be done without physical force through coercion. As a result, the victim may not always display physical evidence of rape on their body. Victims will not always be able to recall a perfect and consistent account of the crime, because of the trauma and shock experienced. This does not mean the account is untrue.
How to report it?
There are no excuses for rape or sexual assault. ‘No’ should always mean no: whether you are in a relationship with the person or they are a stranger, being forced to have sex or do something sexual against your will is a crime. You can report any incident, whether it is something that has just happened, or something less recent. Call 999 if you're in immediate danger or the offence has just happened. Otherwise, you can call 101 or visit your nearest police station. Alternatively, you can access any of the organisations listed below without needing to report to the police.
Commissioned Provider
The Police Reform and Social Responsibility Act 2011 provides powers for the Police and Crime Commissioner to award grants to any organisation or body he considers will support the community safety priorities within his police and crime plan, such as tackling drugs and crime, reducing re-offending and providing support for victims and witnesses.
SV2
As from the 1st of April 2016 SV2 will be the commissioned provider of services to victims of sexual assault and violence. SV2 offers a wide range of support including counselling, therapy and an independent advocacy service for both children and families. For further information please see the contact details below.