Rape and sexual abuse
What is rape and sexual abuse?
Rape is the intentional penetration of the vagina, anus or mouth with a penis, without consent.
Sexual abuse is any other sort of sexual contact and behaviour that is unwanted.
Both of these offences can be committed against men and women. Rape and sexual abuse is always a crime, whether it’s committed by a partner, friend or a stranger.
If you are in a relationship with someone it does not give them the right to have sex with you. Consent is required each and every time you have sex.
How we can help
The Signal team is a dedicated team of highly-trained officers who can help you.
The team is fully aware that rape and sexual abuse are very difficult and sensitive crimes to report.
The earlier you report the crime the better. Do not wash yourself or your clothes and do not move or clean the scene that the offence took place. There could be vital forensic evidence.
If the crime took place sometime ago please still report it. We do understand that there are many reasons why people do not feel able to report rape or sexual abuse at the time. We will always investigate an allegation no matter how much time may have passed since the incident happened.
If you want to report a rape or sexual abuse:
- Call 999 in an emergency or 101 if you are in no immediate danger What happens next?
- An officer will speak to you about what has happened and establish the identity of the suspect (if known)
- The dedicated team will investigate the crime
- They will also offer to refer you to Juniper Lodge, the Sexual Assault Referral Centre, who can provide you with initial and on-going support
- You may have to go to court but there are many things we and other support agencies can do to make this easier.
A referral can be made for a sexual violence advisor who can support you every step of the way.
Whether or not you decide to go ahead with prosecution, you should get medical attention for any injuries.
You many also need emergency contraception and you should also be check for any sexually transmitted infections.
If you are unsure whether to report to the police you can still get support from other services. Juniper Lodge can discuss your options and can even carry out a forensic medical (if within forensic timescale) and store samples taken without involving the police to give you some times and space to make a decision.
Steps you can take to protect yourself becoming a victim or suspect
- Drink responsibly. Consuming large amounts of alcohol or taking drugs can make you vulnerable and could put you at risk
- Arrange transport to and from home before you go out. Don’t walk home alone in the dark
- If someone attempts to engage you in unwanted sexual activity, say no. Get away from the situation and tell someone
- Be very careful about having sex with someone that is intoxicated; they may not be able to give proper consent. In the eyes of the law someone who is drunk has not consented – no matter what they have said
Where you can go for further help and support
- United Against Violence and Abuse 0808 802 0028 - For victims in Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland
- Juniper Lodge is a Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC) which offers free and confidential services 0116 273 3330
- Jasmine House Leicester Rape Crisis (for women) 0116 255 8852
- First Step (for men) 07581 568 144
- GUM Clinic 0800 318 908/ 0300 124 0102
- Leicester Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender (LGBT) Centre 0116 254 7412
- Trade Sexual Health 0116 254 1747
- Ugly Mugs (justice and protection for sex workers)
