What to do if sexually abused

If you have been a victim of sexual abuse you will need legal and medical help. Sexual abuse is a crime. It should, whenever possible, be reported.

This page gives some general guidance-see Information and Support Resources
for specific links to support resources.

UK Sexual Assault Referral Centres

In some areas of the UK there are specialised centres which pull together resources required for adult victims of sexual abuse. They have two basic purposes: to collect forensic evidence and to care for the victim in such a way that physical and mental problems are minimised.

You can refer yourself to one of these centres. You can remain anonymous if you choose to do so.

If however you do wish to report the matter to the police, professionals at these centres can help you through each stage of the process.

See the link below for the locations of these centres

http://www.homeoffice.gov.uk/crime-victims/reducing-crime/sexual-offences/sexual-assault-referral-centres/referral-centre-locations/?version=8

Reporting the Abuse to the Police

If you cannot access a Sexual Assault Referral Centre, go to your local police station and ask to speak to a a specially trained Sexual Offences Liaison Officer. The links below provide information on some of the legal processes and support available if you report the assault.

Victim Support advice for victims of rape

Metropolitan Police advice leaflet for victims of rape

Guidance and information on the legal system (UK)

Improvements to the response to rape victims (UK Government)

Not Reporting the Abuse

Even if you decide not to report the sexual assault, you will still need help. There are medical concerns, such as injury, possible sexually transmitted diseases and pregancy risk that you need to consider and be helped with. Go to an A&E department or even your own GP. They cannot force you to report the crime-but they can help you or refer you to those who can.

Reporting Previous Sexual Abuse

You always have the right to report sexual abuse to the police, regardless of when it happened. Realistically, with the passge of time, the liklihood of obtaining evidence to lead to conviction may be greatly reduced. Nevertheless, there have been cases where victims have come forward after many years and the police have been able to pursue it successfully. Therefore, whenever you experienced the abuse, if you feel you would like to report it, do so. If you are unsure, you may like to speak to someone from Victim Support who will not tell the police unless you are willing for this to happen. See the link below

http://www.victimsupport.com/vs_england_wales/coping_with_crime/criminal_justice_system/reporting.php