Sexual Abuse

On this page we explore

1. What is sexual abuse
2. What is sexual assault
3. Violence against women and girls
4. Where can I get advice and support

What is sexual abuse?

Sexual abuse refers to the abuse people experience because of their gender.

Sexual abuse or harassment is unwanted attention of a sexual nature that violates a person’s dignity, creates a hostile environment, or is offensive. 

Examples of sexual Abuse:

• Being forced to have sex without your permission
• Taking part in sexual activity without your consent (this may include oral sex, touching)
• Being made to look at or take part in sexual pictures or videos that you don’t want to
• Sexual exploitation – when you are bought things in exchange for sexual activity

Sexual abuse and exploitation can start with grooming online or in person where the person gains your trust and convinces you to keep secrets or buy you things to convince you to keep secrets.

What is sexual assault?

Sexual assault is also used to describe any kind of sexual violence or activity (including online) that was unwanted where it involved one or more of the following:

• Pressure,
• Mmanipulation,
• Bullying,
• Intimidation,
• Threats,
• Deception or force.

Example of sexual harassment:

Violence against women and girls

Women in the 16 to 34 years age group are twice as likely to experienced sexual harassment.

Sexual harassment is one of a number of offences that come under ‘Violence Against Women and Girls’ (VAWG).

“The UK government has labelled violence against women and girls as a national threat.“

Types of sexual violence against women and girls

• Attempted rape or rape
• Assault by penetration
• Child sexual assault
• Sexual touching
• Sexual harassment
• Indecent exposure
• Cyber flashing
• Spiking of your food or drink to take advantage of you.

Where can I get advice and support?

• Advice to help you stay safe online – If you’re 14-17, visit the Love Respect Staying safe online section and if you’re 18-24, visit our Online and digital abuse hub  
  

Who to contact for free confidential local support:

• If you feel that you or your friend are in immediate danger always call 999 to contact the Police.
• TOPE – Provide confidential, specialist support for young people 13+ in Suffolk who are or have experienced any form of sexual abuse, harassment or sexual violence. Call 07375 29 62 29 (Mon-Fri 9am to 4.30pm)
• The Ferns – Sexual Assault Referral Centre for free, confidential compassionate support in Suffolk, for all ages, who have experienced sexual assault, including rape. Call: 0330 223 0099 (Mon-Sun 9am to 9pm)
• Brave Futures – is a specialist support service for children and young people up to 18 years who have been sexually abused. They work with the Police and Social Care in Suffolk and Norfolk, to provide a safe place for children and young people to make sense of the confusion they feel to cope with the effects of the abuse.
• Leeway – Offers support to young people who want to break free from domestic abuse in Suffolk and Norfolk. Helpline: 0300 561 0077 (24/7)
• Lighthouse Women’s Aid – A Suffolk based charity that supports women, young people and children who are affected by domestic abuse. Advice Line: 01473 228270 (Mon-Fri 9am to 4pm)

National support:

• ChildLine – A National charity that helps anyone under 19 in the UK with any issue they’re going through. Call: 0800 1111 or start a 1-2-1 chat
• Survivors in Transition – A National charity for all ages and genders who have experienced any form of sexual violence or sexual abuse no matter how long ago this happened or whether it was reported at the time.