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Sexual Abuse

If you are in danger or have just been assaulted, call 999.

What is sexual abuse?

Sexual abuse is any sexual activity that happens without consent. It includes rape, sexual assault, unwanted touching, and being pressured, tricked or forced into sexual acts. It can happen to anyone, of any gender or age, and it can be carried out by a stranger, a partner, a family member or someone you know.

Many survivors, particularly men, stay silent for years because of shame, fear of not being believed, or not recognising what happened as abuse. Sexual abuse can have a deep and lasting impact on mental health, including PTSD, depression, anxiety and substance misuse.

What are the effects of sexual abuse?

1. Emotional effects:

  • Shame, guilt or self-blame.
  • Fear, anxiety and panic.
  • Anger.
  • Feeling numb or disconnected.

2. Trauma symptoms:

  • Flashbacks and nightmares.
  • Avoiding reminders of the abuse.
  • Feeling constantly on edge.

3. Effects on life:

  • Difficulty with trust and intimacy.
  • Using alcohol or drugs to cope.
  • Self-harm or suicidal thoughts.

What are the statistics for sexual abuse in the UK?

Prevalence: Rape Crisis England and Wales reports that around 1 in 4 women and 1 in 18 men have been raped or sexually assaulted as an adult.

Childhood: Many adults experienced sexual abuse as children, and most never told anyone at the time.

Reporting: Most people who are sexually assaulted do not report it to the police. Support services are available whether or not you choose to report.

Where to get help with sexual abuse UK?

Always call 999 if you are in immediate danger.

Rape Crisis 24/7 Support Line (England and Wales):
Helpline: 0808 500 2222 (24/7, free)
Website: https://rapecrisis.org.uk/

Survivors UK: Support for men and non-binary people who have experienced sexual abuse.
Website: https://www.survivorsuk.org/

NAPAC: Support for adults abused as children.
Helpline: 0808 801 0331

Sexual Assault Referral Centres (SARCs): Free medical care, forensic examinations and support, whether or not you report to the police. Search "SARC" on the NHS website.

Samaritans:
Helpline: 116 123 (24/7, free to call)

You will be believed. It was not your fault.

Life events and circumstances

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