You're Not Alone: Sexual Abuse & Violence Awareness Week

Sexual abuse and sexual violence can be hard to talk about, many people feel shame or fear, so they stay silent. But silence can stop someone from getting the help they need and one should have to cope alone.

What is Sexual Abuse or Sexual Violence?

Sexual abuse or violence is any sexual act without consent that causes harm or distress.

It can happen to anyone, at any age, and in any community. It is often done by someone the person knows or once trusted, not always a stranger. Abuse can be physical, psychological and verbal.

The effects can last a long time, and it can affect mental health, relationships, and daily life. But there is hope for recovery with the right support.

What is Consent?

Consent means giving clear and free permission and so consent for any sexual interaction must always be given without pressure or fear. Anyone can change their mind and withdraw their consent at any time.

Sexual abuse can happen when someone:

• Feels pressured, threatened, or guilt-tripped

• Is asleep or unconscious

• Is unwell, under the influence of a substance

• Feels scared or unsafe

• Unable to give informed consent due to a vulnerability

  
  

Saying “yes” because of fear or intimidation is not real consent.

Getting Help and Support

It does not matter when it happened, if recent or some time has passed, it is never too late to ask for help.

Reaching out can feel scary for various reasons, but there are trained professionals who listen without judgement and keep information private.

Many support services are free and they can offer; someone safe to talk to, advice and information, counselling and emotional support.

If you or someone you know needs help after having experience sexual abuse or sexual violence, reach out to one or more of the organisations available to people in Southend.

Healthwatch Southend is a free independent voice, we listen to your experiences of using health and social care services in Southend. We also help you to find the information and advice that you need.

Contact us Email: info@healthwatchSouthend.co.uk or telephone 01702 416 320

Support available to people in Southend

SOSRC: Southend on sea rape crisis – Supporting survivors of all forms of sexual violence, whether it's abuse or assault, regardless of when it occurred in their lives.

 Essex telephone line 0300 003 7 777

SOSRC

Galop provides advocacy and casework support for LGBT+ people who have experience abuse and violence. Telephone 0800 999 5428

Galop

Compass is the domestic abuse helpline for the whole of Essex, and you can call them on

 0330 333 7 444 

Compass