Rape and sexual assault

Rape and sexual assault can happen to women and men of all ages and backgrounds. If an assault does happen, it can be difficult to speak out and ask for help – and even more difficult to report the crime.

Whether or not you feel able to go to the police, it is important to know that a sexual assault is not your fault, that it can affect how you feel for a long time, and that you don’t have to cope with it on your own. Telephone helplines, local support groups, counsellors, and your own GP, can all offer confidential advice and support, and a safe place where you can talk about what has happened. There are also some things you can do to be aware of the risks, and steps you can take to protect yourself.

Further information

The Havens

If you have been raped or sexually assaulted, you can go to The Havens for assistance. They can help you deal with and recover from the emotional and physical effects of the assault. You can contact the havens directly or come via the police. If you go to the Havens directly, you can remain anonymous and you have time to think about how to involve the police, and what to do with any evidence samples.

Metropolitan Police Service

The Police are there to help anyone who comes to them and says they have been raped or sexually assaulted. Whether you are male or female, young or old- they are here to help you.

The Police take all reports of rape and sexual assault seriously. Don't be afraid to report it. View the Police advice booklet that explains how they can help. It explains step by step what happens after you report the crime to the police, and what they (and the people and organisations we can put you in contact with) will do next. This booklet is also available in a number of community languages

  • Telephone: 999 (0r 112 from mobiles) in case of emergency or 101 for non-urgent concerns
  • Website: www.met.police.uk

Victim Support

Is the national charity which helps people affected by crime in England and Wales. They give free and confidential support to help you deal with what you’ve been through as a victim or witness, whether or not you report the crime to the police.

You can speak to someone in the Richmond & Kingston team by ringing 020 8547 3202 during office hours. There is also a Drop-in Clinic every Friday from 9am to 1pm at:

1 Princes Street
The Square
Richmond TW9 1ED

At other times, you can ring the Victim Supportline

Samaritans

Samaritans provides confidential non-judgmental emotional support, 24 hours a day for people who are experiencing feelings of distress or despair, including those which could lead to suicide. Whatever you're going through, whether it's big or small, don't bottle it up. The Samaritans are there for you if you're worried about something, feel upset or confused, or just want to talk to someone.

EACH

EACH is a counselling and support organisation that provides a range of community-based services to individuals and families from the Black and Asian minority ethnic communities that are affected by alcohol and drug misuse and mental health and domestic violence issues.

GALOP

GALOP provides advice and support to lesbians, gay men, bisexual and transgender people who have experienced homophobic or transphobic hate crime or violence in the greater London area, including sexual abuse. It is free and you can remain anonymous if you wish.

Survivors UK

Survivors UK provide information, support and counselling for men who have been raped or sexually abused.

Supporting someone who has been sexually assaulted

It is difficult to know how to support a friend, relative or partner who has been sexually assaulted or raped. Visit the Havens advice pages, which should help you to help them.