Sexual violence and / or sexual abuse can happen to anyone. The terms cover an incredibly wide range of crimes that can affect people regardless of their gender, age, sexuality or ethnicity.
Being pressured or forced to have sex or engage in sexual activity when you don't want to is a crime.
Rape occurs when a male forces his penis into the mouth, anus or vagina of another person when that person doesn't want him to do so. The most important thing to remember is that you should never be forced to have sex when you don't want to.
If the rape or sexual assault has occurred recently, you should call 999 or 101 to enable it to be dealt with as urgently and effectively as possible.
Any sexual assault has the potential to cause a significant physical and emotional impact on the survivor and their loved ones.
Support is available whether it has been reported to the police or not. Also, it does not matter how long ago the abuse happened.
Swindon SARC provides free support to anyone in Wiltshire or Swindon who has experienced any form of sexual assault either recently or in the past. You can contact SARC directly, or through the police.
The Swindon and Wiltshire Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC) - First Light
Survivors can explore a range of options including a medical examination to preserve any evidence – this can done be whether survivors have reported to the police or not, in case they choose to in the future. Survivors will be supported throughout by a Crisis Worker. Swindon SARC can then support survivors with medical aftercare and make a referral to an ISVA (Independent Sexual Violence Advocate) for longer-term emotional support.
ISVAs offer practical and emotional support to anyone who has experienced any sexual assault, either recently or in the past. They can help you to access support services depending on your needs, including safety planning and emotional support.
You do not have to report to the police to get support from an ISVA. However, they can support you through the criminal justice system if you decide to report the police, and unsure that other agencies provide you with information.
FAQs | 24/7 Rape and Sexual Abuse Support Line (247sexualabusesupport.org.uk)
SurvivorsUK | Common Questions – Male sexual abuse and rape
Help after rape and sexual assault - NHS (www.nhs.uk)
Our commitment to rape victims | The Crown Prosecution Service (cps.gov.uk)
Sexual abuse support – Support for victims-survivors of sexual abuse