What is Sexual Violence?
Sexual violence is an umbrella term that includes anything of a sexual nature that is unwanted, makes you feel uncomfortable or is done without your consent. Rape, sexual harassment, sexual abuse, childhood sexual abuse, sexual assault and sexual exploitation are all examples of sexual violence. Perpetrators can include people that you trust, or have just met, as well as partners, ex-partners, colleagues, friends, family members.
Sexual violence can happen to anyone, at any time, and no-one ever asks for or deserves to be sexually violated. There is no excuse for sexual violence.
We understand that speaking to us or any other support services will be a huge decision. First and foremost, what we want you to know, is that #WeBelieveYou
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The Impact of Sexual Violence
We understand that definitions don’t reflect the entirety of a victim’s experience or the complexity of trauma that results from it.
Victims and survivors of sexual violence will hear and receive many conflicting messages about what has happened to them and how they could or should have responded. These messages – which may come from social media, news reports, or even family and friends – are often underpinned by myths and victim-blaming beliefs. Victims and survivors may be impacted by these messages and feel shame, or blame themselves. They can worry who to trust, or fear they won’t be believed if they speak out.
We have included this film, “I am with you”, created by Chanel Miller. Chanel decided to write her story following the #MeToo movement, to empower other survivors of sexual violence. The film captures the impact of this type of violence can have on a survivors sense of identity and feelings around trust, shame, and intimacy.
Support for Sexual Violence
If something sexual happened to you without your consent, regardless of when it happened, Rape Crisis’ 24/7 Rape & Sexual Abuse Support Line is open 24 hours a day, every day of the year:
A webchat facility is also available via the website.
The Armed Forces
If you are in the Armed Forces community we provide a dedicated service to Armed Forces personnel or their family members, which includes support in relation to sexual violence. You can contact our Armed Forces Team by email at armedforces@aurorand.org.uk or call us for advice and support on 023 92 479 254. Find out more about our Armed Forces Services here.
If you are in danger, contact the police on 999.