Sexual violence
What is sexual violence?
Sexual violence is any kind of sexual activity that you do not agree to. Examples of sexual violence are sexual assault, rape, sexual abuse and sexual harassment.
If you have experienced sexual violence, whether recently or a long time ago, it is important to remember it is not your fault and you are not alone. There are people and places who can support you, even if you decide not to report it to the police.
If you have experienced a sexual assault, including rape, go somewhere you feel safe, and don’t be afraid to get help. Talk to a friend or family member you trust, or contact one of the support services below.
It’s important to seek specialist medical attention and practical or emotional support as soon as possible, whether you decide to involve the police. Your first point of contact should be a Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC), which has specially trained staff.
Rape
Rape is when someone puts their penis into another person's vagina, anus or mouth without their consent.
It is also rape if someone lies about using a condom, or secretly removes or damages a condom during sex. This is sometimes called stealthing.
If someone has sex with you when you do not want to, it is rape. This is true even if they are your partner or spouse.
Sexual assault
Sexual assault is when someone touches another person in a sexual way without their consent. This can include kissing or touching their genitals, breasts or bottom, even over their clothes. It can also include touching any other part of their body in a sexual way.
See our page on consent and the law
Sexual abuse
Sexual abuse is when someone is forced, pressured or tricked into taking part in sexual activity.
This can happen in an abusive relationship. For example, someone may pressure their partner to have sex or do sexual things they do not want to do.
Female genital mutilation (FGM)
Female genital mutilation (FGM) is when some or all of the external genitals are removed or injured. It is usually carried out on girls or young women and people with a vulva.
Sexual harassment
Sexual harassment is unwanted behaviour of a sexual nature. This can include:
- sexual comments, jokes or gestures
- staring at someone's body in a sexual way
- sharing or threatening to share intimate images
- sending unwanted nude or sexual images
- showing someone their genitals without their consent, sometimes called flashing
Sexual violence can have a very serious impact, not just physically, but emotionally and psychologically as well.
You may experience anxiety, depression, flashbacks and feelings of guilt. It can cause nightmares and potentially lead to victims turning to substance misuse of drugs or alcohol or self-harm.
If you have experienced rape or sexual assault, ideally you should contact The Harbour Centre (Norfolk Sexual Assault Referral Centre) as soon as possible for specialist advice and support. They also offer access to emergency contraception (to prevent pregnancy), testing for sexually transmitted infections (STIs), pregnancy testing, HIV PEP (post exposure prophylaxis) and vaccinations, is relevant.
Call 999 to report a rape or attempted sexual assault as soon as possible after the crime.
You can also get advice and support from agencies listed in the ‘Who else can help?’ section.
This is when alcohol or drugs are put into your drink without your permission. This can sometimes lead to sexual assault, which you are powerless to prevent.
If you believe you have been sexually assaulted because of spiking, you should contact The Harbour Centre (Norfolk Sexual Assault Referral Centre) as soon as possible for specialist advice and support.
You can also get advice and support from agencies listed in the ‘Who else can help?’ section
If you’re the victim of rape or sexual assault, the police and other organisations are also here to help.
Rape Crisis England and Wales is the feminist charity working to end child sexual abuse, rape, sexual assault, sexual harassment and all other forms of sexual violence.
iCaSH is an NHS service that provides free, confidential contraception and sexual health services in Norfolk
