If you have been raped or sexually assaulted, you are not alone. Support is available, whenever it happened, and whatever you choose to do next.

What Should I Do First?

• Get to a safe place if you can.
• Consider your immediate needs: If you are injured or need urgent help, call 999.
• Try not to wash, eat, drink, or change clothes if you might want forensic evidence collected, but your wellbeing comes first. Evidence can still be collected even if you have washed or changed.
• You do not have to report to the police unless you want to. Support is available whether or not you choose to report

Your Options for Support

Sexual Assault Referral Centres (SARCs)

SARCs offer confidential medical, practical, and emotional support to anyone who has been raped or sexually assaulted. You can:

• Get a forensic medical examination (to collect evidence, if you wish)
• Receive emergency contraception and testing for sexually transmitted infections
• Access crisis support and advice
• Be referred to an Independent Sexual Violence Adviser (ISVA)

Find your nearest SARC:

• Find a SARC on the NHS website

Independent Sexual Violence Adviser (ISVA) Service

ISVAs provide specialist, independent support to anyone affected by rape or sexual assault. They can:

• Offer emotional and practical support
• Explain your options and rights
• Support you whether or not you report to the police
• Guide you through the criminal justice process if you choose to report

Find an ISVA in your area:

• The Survivors Trust ISVA Directory

Our Services

We offer:

• ISVA Service: Independent, specialist support for survivors.
• SARC Support: Medical care, forensic examinations, and crisis support.

Our areas: Swindon & Wiltshire, Gloucester & Gloucestershire

National Support

If you are outside our area or want national help, you can contact:

• Victim Support:
  Free, confidential support for anyone affected by crime, including rape and sexual assault.
  • Call: 08 08 16 89 111
  • Victim Support Website
  • 24/7 live chat available
• Rape Crisis England & Wales:
  • 24/7 Support Line: 0808 500 2222
  • Find your local Rape Crisis centre

If You Want to Call the Police

• You are in control. It is your choice whether or not to report what happened to the police.
• If you are in immediate danger, call 999.
• If you want to report a rape or sexual assault, you can:
  • Call 999 (emergency) or 101 (non-emergency).
  • Visit your local police station.
  • Ask a Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC) or Independent Sexual Violence Adviser (ISVA) to support you in making a report.

What happens if you call the police?

• The police will listen to you and take your report seriously.
• You can ask to speak to a specially trained officer.
• You can have someone with you for support, such as an ISVA or a trusted person.
• You can stop the process at any time if you change your mind.

You do not have to report to the police to get help or support. Support is available whatever you decide.

Remember

• You are not to blame.
• You are in control of what happens next.
• Support is available, whatever you decide.

The post I Have Been Raped or Sexual Assaulted was created by First Light.