The most important thing to remember is that it was not your fault, and you are not alone.
Sexual assault and rape is a traumatic and extremely stressful experience, whether it was by someone you know or a complete stranger.
Every person’s reaction to rape and sexual abuse will be different. A common myth around rape is that everyone will react hysterically or tearfully after the attack. In reality, however, people can experience a mixture of emotions in the immediate aftermath of the attack or in the hours/days that follow.
Our Sexual Violence Advisors (ISVAs) are specially trained workers who are independent from the police and other statutory services. Our ISVAs offer practical and emotional support to anyone who has been raped, sexually assaulted or abused, including grooming, FGM and exploitation (CSE). Whether this happened recently or in the past.
Some of the symptoms you may experience or be experiencing are:
- Constant anxiety
- Fear and shock
- Being on edge and easily startled
- Nightmares
- Sleeping and/or eating difficulties
- Feelings of shame and self-blame
- Health related issues
Reporting to the police
You do not have to report to the police to get support from us.
If you don’t want to report, we are here to support you with any emotional needs, guidance, safety planning and help you access any more relevant information.
If you are considering reporting to the police, we can help you understand how the criminal justice process works. We can talk you through what will happen if you do report to the police, what will happen if you report anonymously or the importance and process of forensic DNA retrieval.
*There are times that on our Helpline and in all our Domestic Abuse services, we will report to the police, with or without consent, if the risk to a client, child or third party, is significantly high.
How can we help you?
We are here to listen, encourage and empower you, enabling you to openly express your feelings within a confident and safe setting. We will provide you with information to help in your recovery without overwhelming you. Our ISVAs are there to provide you with information to help you make the right decision for you.
Safety Planning
Medical Support
Legal Support
We can help you to explore your legal options, and support you throughout any future court processes.
Support Agencies
Freeva’s Sexual Violence Support service has been independently accredited as meeting the Quality Standards for Independent Sexual Violence Advisor Services, and gained LimeCulture’s ‘Quality Mark’ in 2019.
All ISVAs receive specialist ISVA accredited training to work with survivors of sexual abuse to enable them to support clients effectively. The independent company LimeCulture provides a programme of accreditation and monitoring against Quality Standards to ensure overall quality and consistency of service provision.
How to get help
Our Sexual Violence Support Service is for anyone living in Leicester, Leicestershire or Rutland, who has experienced rape and/or sexual assault. This could be as a result of a recent incident or something that has happened in the past. If you live outside of the Leicestershire or Rutland area, please contact the National Domestic Abuse Helpline on 0808 2000 247.
- 0808 802 0028
- Monday to Friday: 8am-8pm
- Weekends & Bank Holidays: 10am-4pm
Outside of these hours, you can contact the SARC (Sexual Abuse Referral Centre) which has a 24hr voicemail service; please leave a message and your call will be returned – Juniper Lodge SARC – 0116 273 3330.
