Assault and sexual violence
Assault, abuse and sexual violence happen when someone is forced into doing something sexual that they do not want to do, or they are not able to agree to. It can take many different forms, from physical violence to controlling behaviour and it’s not always easy to identify.
Abuse or violence can happen to anyone, regardless of their gender, age, sexual orientation or relationship status.
If you are experiencing any kind of violence or abuse, it is not your fault. And help is available. If you tell a clinician or health professional about what’s happened, they will take it seriously and help you find the support you need.
If you are in immediate danger, call 999 and ask for the police.
If making a sound would put you in danger, call 999 and press 55 to reach the police.
Sexual assault and rape
Both sexual assault and rape refer to sex or sex acts done without consent.
If you need immediate support after a sexual assault or rape, you can contact a specialist centre for help. These sexual assault referral centres can offer medical, practical and emotional support. You do not have to report anything to the police to contact these centres, but they can help you report if you choose to.
Find a sexual assault clinic near you in:
If you have experienced any kind of sexual assault - recently or in the past - then Rape Crisis offers 24/7 support through its website, including a phone helpline, online chat and centres in some parts of the country. Go to the Rape Crisis website.You do not need to report anything to the police to use these services. But they can help you if you do want to do this.
Sexual exploitation
Sexual exploitation takes place when someone is pressured or forced into doing sexual acts. It can often involve being given gifts, alcohol, money or drugs in exchange for sex. Or it can involve blackmail, violence and making threats. It does not always involve physical contact, as it can take place online.
It can affect children, young people and adults, of all genders. And it can be hard to identify, as exploitative relationships can appear consensual.
Domestic abuse and violence
Domestic abuse is the repeated use of intimidation and threats to control a partner, ex-partner or family member. Domestic abuse does not always involve physical violence. It can be physical but it can also take the form of emotional, psychological, financial or sexual abuse. Research shows that most domestic abuse is carried out against women. But domestic abuse and violence can happen to anyone.
Coercive and controlling behaviour
Coercive and controlling behaviour is a kind of domestic abuse. A controlling or coercive person behaves in a way that isolates the other person and restricts their independence. This can include verbal insults, humiliation and monitoring what you do and who you speak to. People in controlling or coercive relationships can feel pressured to do things they do not want to do.
It can be hard to take the first step, but there are lots of people who can help you. And they understand the need to keep you safe. They can help you without anyone else finding out.
If you need support with a controlling, abusive or violent relationship, reach out to these organisations:
The National Domestic Abuse Helpline - call for free and in confidence, 24 hours a day: 0808 2000 247
Mankind Initiative - support for men who have experienced abuse from a partner. Their confidential helpline is open weekdays, 10am-4pm: 01823 334 244
Galop - support for support LGBT+ people who have experienced abuse and violence. Their helpline is 0800 999 5428
Victim Support - call the Supportline for free, confidential support on 0808 1689 111 or use their live chat service
You can also find help and support for domestic abuse on GOV.UK and on the NHS
If you are worried about your own behaviour towards a partner or family member, and would like to change, contact Respect, use their web chat or call their free phoneline: 0808 8024 040
Trafficking and modern slavery
Trafficking is when a person is moved from one place to another so that they can be abused or exploited. You might have been forced to travel or told lies about what would happen when you arrived. People can be trafficked and exploited in different forms, including being forced into sexual exploitation, labour, begging or crime.
Sometimes people are trafficked and forced to work in unsafe or illegal conditions. You may not be allowed to keep the money from your work, have your phone or important documents taken away from you or feel controlled by large debt. This is a form of modern slavery.
If you’ve been trafficked or you’re worried about someone you know, these organisations can help you:
The Poppy Project - provides support, advocacy and accommodation to trafficked women. Call them on 020 7735 2062
The Modern slavery helpline - call the helpline on 0800 0121 700 or report your concerns online
Female genital cutting
Female genital cutting (FGC) is when a girl's genitals are altered or removed for non-medical reasons. You might hear it called female genital mutilation (FGM), female circumcision or cutting. It can cause long-lasting physical damage and ongoing emotional distress. There are no health benefits to cutting.
Over 200 million girls and women across the world have been affected by FGC. It's illegal in the UK. Because it’s so serious, if you contact our team, are under 18 and have experienced FGC we have to tell other organisations who can help you.
If you are at risk of FGC or have been affected by FGC, or you’re worried about someone you know, these organisations give you support and advice.
Forward - contact Forward for one-to-one support. Open Monday to Friday, 9.30am to 5.30pm. Call 020 8960 4000, extension 1, or 07834 168 141
The Halo Project - a national service that supports victims of ‘honour’-based violence, forced marriage and FGC. In an emergency call: 08081 788 424. When it’s not an emergency and you need to speak to someone for some advice then call 01642 683 045
NSPCC - advice for keeping children and young people safe from FGM
Health passport - information about FGM, UK law and who to contact if you need help, available in many languages
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