If you’ve experienced sexual violence — recently or in the past, including childhood abuse
We know how hard it can be to reach out after experiencing sexual violence — whether it happened recently or long ago. You deserve to be heard, believed, and supported. What happened was not your fault, and you are not alone.
Thinking about reporting to the police
Some people choose to report what happened to the police, and some do not. It’s a personal decision, and whatever you choose, your feelings and choices are valid. We are here to support you either way.
If you’re considering reporting, here are some things that may help you decide what feels right for you:
You are in control of your choices. Whether or not to report is entirely up to you. If you choose to speak with the police, they are there to listen and support you in the process.
If the incident happened recently:
You can access emergency medical care, even if you’re unsure about reporting. If you’ve experienced sexual violence or assault and need medical/forensic care and support, you have two main local SARC options:
- For those residing (or incident happened) in Cheshire → St Mary’s SARC (Manchester) 24/7 telephone, you don’t need to report to the police.
0161 276 6515. St Mary’s Centre
- For those residing (or incident happened) in St Helens, Knowsley or wider Merseyside → SAFE Place Merseyside SARC — also free, 24/7, both men and women, no police report required to be seen.
0151 295 3550 SAFE Place Merseyside
If the abuse happened in the past — even many years ago:
- It’s never too late to speak out. Many survivors report abuse days, months, or years after it happened.
- You may have the option to report anonymously if you’re not ready to give your name.
- Even if you don’t know the identity of the person who harmed you, your report could still be important.
Police Investigation. The police investigate what you tell them and then it is the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) that decides whether to take the case any further. Even if there is little evidence it may be taken to court if there is a concern for public safety.
Sometimes a single report helps reveal a bigger picture. For example, when one survivor comes forward, it can empower others to do the same. This often happens in cases of childhood sexual abuse, when survivors later discover others were also harmed by the same person.
Your wellbeing matters. Some survivors say reporting was part of their healing journey — others choose not to report and find healing in different ways. Both are valid.
Support is available. An Independent Sexual Violence Advisor (ISVA) is there to support you throughout the criminal justice process — offering clear information, practical guidance, and emotional support along the way.
Special Measures. Supportive special measures are available to help you feel as safe and comfortable as possible during the criminal justice process — for example, during court you may be able to give evidence from a different room or from behind a screen.
If you decide not to report
There are many reasons why survivors choose not to report — safety, privacy, emotional readiness, or simply because it doesn’t feel right. Whatever your reason, it’s okay.
You still deserve support, healing, and care.
Whether or not you’ve reported the abuse, you may want to talk to someone, access counselling, or explore your options. We’re here for that too.
You can reach out anytime, even if you’re unsure what you need. We’re here to listen and support you.
In all cases:
- You have a choice whether or not to report to the police. The medical/forensic support is still available.
- You are supported by qualified forensic staff, health staff and follow-on support.
- You do not have to face this alone — we (RASASC) can help you understand your options and accompany you where needed.
Some useful contacts:
National Association for People Abused in Childhood (helpline weekdays and evenings) 0800 085 3330 www.napac.org.uk
Victim Support (help and advice if you have been a victim of a crime. They can also help you apply for compensation) 0845 30 30 900 www.victimsupport.org.uk/
Crimestoppers If you prefer to report something anonymously, Crime Stoppers is a safe and confidential option. 0800 555 111 Crimestoppers
