Sexual abuse and violence

Definition:

Any sexual contact without your consent is sexual assault and is a crime.

It can involve any sexual act or attempt to obtain a sexual act. This might include indecent exposure, sexual harassment, cyber-flashing, sextortion, unwanted sexual comments or advances and rape.

Just because it is not listed this does not mean it is not sexual violence.

To find out more about types of sexual assault and violence, visit Rape Crisis England.

Actions to consider

• If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, contact the Police immediately by dialling 999.
• It doesn’t matter how long ago the assault happened; you can always get help from Victim First and/or report it to the police.
• If you don’t feel ready to go to the police, Sexual Assault Referral Centres (SARCs) provide medical care and support and can also gather forensic evidence and will support you every step along the way.
• Contact Us, we are here to support you. Our team understand the impact sexual assault can have on someone and can talk with you confidentially.
• There are many services; both local and national, that can provide support, information and advice such as Free From Violence and Abuse (FREEVA). See our list of useful organisations on the right hand side of this page.
• To find out more visit – Rape, sexual assault and other sexual offences | Leicestershire Police (leics.police.uk)

Victim First can provide:

• Information on other agencies
• Practical support such as a personal alarm or window/door alarm
• Advice on Crime Prevention
• Restorative contact between victim and offender
• Support using Language interpreters and British Sign Language interpreters