I have experienced Rape or Sexual Abuse

We understand that people respond to rape or sexual assault in different ways, some experience guilt or are ashamed others are angry. You may experience feelings of powerlessness and have difficulty eating, sleeping or concentrating.

Many don’t seek help or advice immediately and may look for support months or years after experiencing sexual abuse. We can offer support and advice at any point.

If you've been assaulted by a partner or someone else you know, the effects may be even greater. As well as the experience itself, you've had your trust abused and this can affect your relationship with other people, both now and in the future.

Support and help:

Counselling

Counselling is an umbrella term that covers a range of talking therapies. We offer specific therapies for victims of domestic abuse, sexual violence and childhood sexual abuse.
In the counselling sessions you can explore various aspects of your life and feelings. You are able to talk about them freely and openly in a way that is rarely possible with family and friends.
Please contact us here for further information about our counselling service.

Independent Sexual Violence Advisers

Our Independent Sexual Violence Advisers provide support for those who have experienced rape, childhood sexual abuse or other sexual offences.

Their role is to ensure that you receive all the help and support you need to cope with the immediate aftermath of an assault and to support your long term recovery. As trained specialists in supporting victims of sexual offences their support can range from advice on what would happen if you chose to report to the Police to support through the Investigation and at Court if you already have.  Your ISVA will advise and guide you, acting as an adviser and advocate, they are not therapists or counsellors (although they will ensure that you are receiving that service if you wish) they can offer support with a huge variety of other things outside of the criminal justice system such as:

• Safety
• Housing
• Arranging and accompanying you to Sexual Health Screening
• Support with finances
• Attending appointments and court hearing with you

Our team of Independent Sexual Violence Advisers includes two Children’s Independent Sexual Violence Advisers who offer support direct to children and young people who have been the victim sexual offences and their parents and carers.

To make an appointment to see an ISVA click here or call us on 0800 197 4787.