Rape and sexual assault are acts of sexual violence. Both are against the law and can result in prosecution in a court of law.
Reporting a rape or sexual assault
If you have been raped or sexually assaulted, you can report the crime to the police at any time, either immediately after the incident or at a later date.
If you choose not to report the crime, you can still get help and advice from Victim Support. Trained volunteers can visit you at home, or you can talk to someone confidentially by calling the Victim Support help line on 0845 30 30 900.
Medical advice
Even if you do not wish to report the sexual offence to the police, you should still seek medical attention for advice on emergency contraception and sexually transmitted infections (STIs). You can:
- Talk to your GP.
- Go to a sexual health clinic (GUM clinic).
- Get help and support from a sexual health clinic run by the Family Planning Association, either by calling 0845 122 8690 or by looking on their website (see 'useful links').
- Call NHS Direct on 0845 4647 to speak to someone in complete confidence.
