RAPE & SEXUAL VIOLENCESexual violence / If you have recently been assaulted / If you have experienced sexual violence SEXUAL VIOLENCEWe refer to rape, sexual assault and sexual abuse as sexual violence. This is because they are violent acts which violate and humiliate people. They hurt the victim-survivor physically, emotionally and psychologically. They are never about love or affection; they are about violence, domination, power and aggression. During rape or assault a woman's right to be self-empowered and sexually self-determined is completely denied. Such a violation takes away the control we expect to have over our bodies and our lives. Sexual violence also includes: incest, sexual domestic violence, trafficking and sexual exploitation, female genital mutilation, ritual abuse, forced marriage, crimes in the name of honour, sexual intimidation, coercion or harassment, whether physical or verbal. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- IF YOU HAVE RECENTLY BEEN RAPED, SEXUALLY ASSAULTED OR ATTACKEDIf you have been attacked recently you may be in shock. You may be feeling numb, unemotional, in total disbelief, crying, shaking, laughing or physically being sick.
If you are not sure what you want to do, you can go to your nearest Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC) where you can have a forensic and medical examination. They can test for sexually transmitted infections and pregnancy and give you the relevant medication, including the morning after pill. They can store the forensic results until you make up your mind whether to report to the police or not. SARC's have specially trained experienced professionals who can give you medical help and advice. They can also help and support you through the immediate trauma. The SARC in Bristol also provides ongoing support and counselling. If you live in Avon or Somerset you can go to the Sexual Assault Referral Centre in Bristol: The Bridge Telephone: 0117 342 6999 If you are not sure where there is a SARC you can contact the NHS Direct on 0845 4647or contact your local doctor or Accident and Emergency hospital, alternatively click on the link below. If you can, take a friend for support. If you decide to report to the police
Don't worry if you have already done some of these things. It is likely that there is still evidence to collect as well as injuries that can be documented. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- IF YOU HAVE EXPERIENCED ANY FORM OF SEXUAL VIOLENCE AT ANY POINT IN YOUR LIFEWomen of all background experience sexual violence. If you have experienced any form of sexual violence, at any point in your life, the most important thing you need to know is that it was not your fault. Whatever the circumstances, however you behaved, whatever you said, did , drank or took, you did not deserve that. The person who abused you chose to do that, it was a violation of your body and your trust. They are responsible for their actions, not you. Victims-survivors of sexual violence can feel many different and sometimes conflicting things:
Everyone reacts differently to a traumatic event. Whatever you are feeling is a normal and totally valid response to what has happened. The list above is by no means everything you may be feeling and indeed some women experience none of the above. Many women find that speaking about their experience, although often difficult and painful, helps them come to terms with what has happened, and regain a sense of control. If you would like to speak to another woman in confidence you can call Bristol Rape Crisis. |
|
