Police
If you’d like to make a report to the police, you can do so by:
Reporting online: police.uk
Calling 101
In an emergency, where life is at risk or a crime is ongoing, dial 999
Victim Support
If you have been a victim of crime, whether recently or in the past, Victim Support is there to help. It provides emotional support, information, and practical help, regardless of whether you have reported the crime to the police. All its services are free and confidential. You can call on 0808 168 9111.
Sexual Assault Referral Centres (SARCs)
You can self-refer to a local SARC if you want to make a complaint of rape or sexual assault. SARCs offer counselling, support, and help with forensic examinations. Services are available across the UK, and you do not need to have reported to the police.
To find your nearest SARC, visit: nhs.uk/service-search/other-services/Rape-and-sexual-assault-referral-centre/LocationSearch/364
Women’s Aid
Women’s Aid is a national charity supporting women experiencing domestic abuse. It provides emotional and practical help, including access to refuge accommodation, advice, and local support services.
You can use the Live Chat service, contact a local service, or call the 24-hour National Domestic Abuse Helpline on 0808 2000 247.
Rape Crisis
Rape Crisis is a charity working to end sexual violence and abuse. Lots of information and statistics around sexual harassment and the law are available. It also has a free anonymous helpline for anybody aged 16 or over who has been affected by rape, sexual abuse, sexual assault or any other type of sexual violence.
If you get in touch, you can take the conversation at your own pace, and you only need to talk about what you are comfortable with sharing. The phone service is open 24/7, every day of the year. The webchat service is currently open Monday-Thursday: 1pm – 5pm, 6pm – 9pm. Friday: 2pm – 5pm
rapecrisis.org.uk/get-informed/types-of-sexual-violence/what-is-sexual-harassment/
Sexual Violence Support
A website developed in collaboration with UK Police Crime Commissioners, NHS England, and Sexual Assault & Abuse Services. The site includes information and links to local and national support services for people affected by sexual violence across England and the wider UK.
NHS Sexual Violence Advisors
Hours: Monday-Friday: 9am-5pm
The NHS has Independent Sexual Violence Advisors (ISVAs) available across the UK within safeguarding and specialist teams. Support is available for both staff and patients. You can request to speak to an ISVA at any point during your stay in hospital, or after you are discharged.
To find NHS support services in your area:
nhs.uk/live-well/sexual-health/help-after-rape-and-sexual-assault/
SafeLives
Hours: Mon-Fri, 9am-5pm. SafeLives is a UK-wide charity dedicated to ending domestic abuse for everyone. It supports those experiencing abuse and works with professionals to coordinate tailored safety plans. It also offers support for young people and families.
Tel: 0117 403 3220
safelives.org.uk