Sexual violence or abuse
Call 999 in an emergency or if sexual violence seems likely.
Sexual violence
Sexual violence is any unwanted sexual activity, including any acts of violence, coercion or manipulation. It can happen to anyone no matter what age. The perpetrator could be a stranger, someone known to you, or a family member or partner.
Sexual violence includes:
- rape
- sexual assault (any physical, psychological and emotional violence in the form of a sexual act carried out without a person’s active consent i.e. saying ‘yes’)
- sexual abuse (this includes being pressurised or coerced into sexual activity you do not want to do)
- sexual exploitation
- image-based sexual abuse (non-consensual creation and/or distribution of private, sexual images and videos)
- sexual harassment, both online and offline
- grooming or stalking for sexual purposes
- female genital mutilation
- exposure or flashing
- incest
If you have experienced sexual violence or abuse
If you have experienced sexual violence, it is not your fault. It is a criminal offence, no matter who commits it or where it happens.
If you have experienced rape, sexual assault, or abuse, consider getting medical help for any physical injuries or emotional distress as soon as possible, you may also be at risk of pregnancy or sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
If you want the crime to be investigated, the sooner a forensic medical examination takes place, the better. Try not to wash or change your clothes immediately after a sexual assault, this may destroy forensic evidence that could be important if you decide to report the assault to the police.
Sexual assault referral centres (SARCs) offer medical, practical and emotional support to anyone who has been raped, sexually assaulted or abused. SARCs have specially trained doctors, nurses and support workers to care for you. You can also speak to an Independent Sexual Violence Advocate (ISVA) through Trafford Rape Crisis.
Support for sexual violence
More information on how to access support on domestic abuse in Trafford. If it is an emergency, dial 999 or dial 101 to call the police.
- St Mary’s SARC
- The Northern Contraception, Sexual Health and HIV Service
- Trafford Rape Crisis
- Help after rape and sexual assault - NHS
- Voluntary organisations: Women's Aid, Victim Support, The Survivors Trust or Male Survivors Partnership
- The 24-hour freephone National Domestic Abuse Helpline, run by Refuge, on 0808 2000 247
- The rape and sexual abuse support line run by Rape Crisis England and Wales – you can call the helpline on 0808 500 2222 or use the online chat (both are free and are open 24 hours a day, every day of the year).
- Sexual Assault Referral Centre Animation
- A hospital accident and emergency (A&E) department
- A genitourinary medicine (GUM), sexual health or contraceptive clinic
- a young people's service
- GP practice
- Call NHS 111 or get help from 111 online
- Call the police on 101
Domestic abuse
Anyone can be a victim of domestic abuse regardless of gender, age, sexuality, disability, social or financial background, culture or beliefs. More information on how to access support for domestic abuse.