Rape & Assault
It is an offence to take part in sexual activity with anybody other than a freely consenting adult over the legal age of consent. Forcing somebody to have sex is a crime. See the Sex the Law section to see what the laws are regarding sex.
Rape and assault can happen to anybody - man or woman, young or old, regardless of sexual orientation or ethnic origin. They are terrible crimes, and traumatic, distressing experiences for the victim.
The your night out section contains some helpful tips about what you can do on a night out to help protect yourself and reduce the risk of becoming a victim of rape or assault.
Instances of drug-assisted rape are increasing dramatically in the UK. The drug rape section contains information about drug-assisted rape and what to do if you think your drink may have been spiked.
If you have been raped, or think you may have been raped, the final section offers advice about what to do if it happens to you, including information about what happens if you decide to report the crime to the police.
The effects on the victim of rape or assault can last for a long time, but they do not need to suffer in silence. There are many organisations that can offer help and support, however recent or long ago the incident may have taken place. One of the most helpful ways to come to terms with the assault can be to talk about your feelings to somebody you trust, who will provide you with support and understanding. See contact info for more information.
Contacts
The contacts database contains details of organisations that may be able to offer information or assistance on this issue.
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