Rape and sexual assault
Rape and sexual assault are acts of sexual violence. Both are
against the law and can be prosecuted in a court of law. It can
happen to anyone: Male or female, heterosexual or gay, old or
young.
The effect that it has on people will vary and different people
may feel the impact of it at different times. You might feel
scared, frightened, angry or embarrassed; whatever you feel,
remember that you are not alone.
If you have been raped or sexually assaulted you can report the
crime to the police at any time. For example, immediately after the
incident or days later.
If you choose not to report the crime you can still get help and
support from Victim Support. Trained volunteers
can visit you at home, or you can talk confidentially (this means
that they won't tell anyone else unless you want them to) by
calling their Victim Support line on 0845
30 30 900.
Even if you do not wish to report the sexual offence to the
police, you should still seek medical attention and advice on
emergency contraception and sexually transmitted infections
(STIs).
If you need help:
- The
Havens provides clinical services, counselling, and practical
and emotional support Tel: 020 7247 4787 (available 24
hours a day, 7 days a week)
- talk to your GP,
- go to a sexual
health clinic
- call NHS Direct on 0845
4647
- call the Samaritans on 08457 90 90
90
- The police have set up special units
to support people who have been sexually assaulted. These
units are called 'Sapphire' and are based across London. If
you want to press charges or would like advice you can find out
more from their website:
http://www.met.police.uk/sapphire/index.htm