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Sexual assault support services

If you have been sexually assaulted, you can report it to the police by calling 999 or 101. You can also contact the New Pathways Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC) on 01685 379310. Historic sexual assaults can also be reported through the online referral form available on the New Pathways website here (opens in new tab)

If the assault happened in the last seven days, we advise you to contact a SARC as soon as possible. New Pathways can give you support and advice during this difficult time. You can find more information on New Pathways website here (opens in new tab).

SARCs are open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, all year round. They are for everyone, no matter your age, gender, or what and when it happened.

You may need time to think what has happened to you, but it is important to get medical help as soon as you can. You may be at risk of pregnancy or sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

You can also speak to staff at one of our sexual health clinics by calling 01267 248674.

 

How we can help

We offer the following services from our sexual health clinics where appropriate:

  • Emotional support and advice
  • STI testing and management
  • HIV risk assessment and Post Exposure Prophylaxis (PEPSE)
  • Hepatitis B vaccination
  • Emergency contraception and ongoing contraception
  • Pregnancy testing

Frequently asked questions

Sexual assault is any sexual act that someone does not agree to or is forced into. It is a type of sexual violence. It can include rape, touching, forced kissing, or abuse of a child.

Sexual assault can happen to anyone, at any age.

Sexual assault is a crime and can be reported to the police like any other crime. It is common for someone who has been sexually assaulted to have no injuries or visible signs. This does not mean it is not serious. 

Most sexual assaults are carried out by someone the person knows. This could be a partner, ex-partner, family member, friend, or colleague. It can happen in many places but often happens in a home.

Sexual Assault Referral Centres (SARCs) offer medical, practical, and emotional support. They help anyone who has been raped, sexually assaulted, or abused. SARCs have trained doctors, nurses, and support workers to care for you.

You can get help by booking an appointment with your nearest SARC. For more information, visit our page here (opens in new tab).

You can also get help from:

  • A doctor or nurse at your GP surgery
  • Support groups such as Rape Crisis, Women’s Aid, Victim Support, The Survivors Trust, or Male Survivors Partnership
  • The National Domestic Abuse Helpline (free, 24 hours): 0808 2000 247
  • The Rape Crisis helpline (free, 24 hours): 0808 500 2222 or online chat
  • A hospital A&E department
  • A sexual health clinic
  • NHS 111 (phone or online)
  • The police on 101
  • In an emergency, call 999
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