Speaking up, finding support this Sexual Abuse and Violence Week
Published: 5/2/2025
In honour of Sexual Abuse and Sexual Violence Awareness Week, we want those affected by these crimes to be aware of resources available to them. From reporting to physical and mental support, there is wealth of resources to aid victims.
Rape Crisis England and Wales reported that between October 2023 and September 2024, police recorded 69,958 rapes. With 1 in 4 women, 1 in 18 men, and 1 in 6 children experiencing sexual abuse. These stark statistics can be difficult to process, but its important to acknowledge the reality of sexual violence.
If you have experienced sexual abuse or violence, please remember it is never your fault. Sexual abuse is a crime no matter who commits it or where it happens. Reaching out for help is a sign of strength so don’t be afraid to get help!
How to report?
Deciding whether you want to report your experience of sexual abuse or violence is entirely your decision. When and if you are ready, the following reporting options are available:
- Emergency: Call 999
- If you have a hearing or speech impairment: use textphone service on 18001 101
- Non-emergency: Call 101
- Online reporting: Sexual assault, rape or sexual abuse
Finding Sexual Assault Referral Centres
Whether or not you are ready to report, it is highly recommended to visit a Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARCs) to ensure physical, sexual and mental health. Alongside this, if you wish to report or report when you are ready, the best chance of percussion is completing a forensic medical examination, which these centres offer.
These centres have specially trained doctors, nurses and support workers to provide you with the needed support and care. To find your closest centre visit https://www.nhs.uk/service-search/sexual-health-services/find-a-rape-and-sexual-assault-referral-centre/
Alternative support:
- Crimestoppers anonymous reporting: Visit HERE or call on 0800 555 111.
- RASA Merseyside: Visit HERE or call 0151 558 1801 for 24/7 support.
- Safe Place Merseyside sexual assault medical support: Visit HERE or call on 0151 295 3550.
- Survivor UK: for this specialist helpline service for men and non-binary people who have experience sexual violence, visit https://www.survivorsuk.org/
- Merseyside Police Support after rape or sexual assault directory: Visit https://www.merseyside.police.uk/ro/report/rsa/alpha-v1/advice/rape-sexual-assault-and-other-sexual-offences/rape-sexual-assault-support/ to discover which support is right for you.
- Domestic abuse support