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Facts
Most rapes are committed by people known to the victim, NOT strangers.
Rapists choose victims based on their vulnerability, rather than how they look.
Both men and women can be raped.
Having non consensual sex with someone who is very drunk is rape.
NO CONSENT = NO SEX
Stay Safe
Drinking too much alcohol increases your vulnerability. Eat something before you drink and alternate alcohol with soft drinks.
Plan your night out and make sure you can get home safely. It is a good idea to let your friends know your plans, and what time they can expect to see you back.
Think twice before leaving a pub, club or party with someone you have just met and hardly know. Although drink spiking is rare, you should always keep your drink safe. If someone is buying you a drink, go to the bar and watch it being poured.
Make sure you have enough money for a taxi home - getting back safely is more important than one more drink.
If You Become A Victim
Try to leave the scene of the assault exactly as it was. This will help to preserve any forensic evidence. Your clothes may also contain evidence, including DNA, so don't wash them.
Report the incident to Police as soon as possible. Always dial 999 in an emergency. If you report the assault soon after it has taken place, you will be asked whether you are happy to have a medical examination; this is so that any forensic evidence can be gathered.
A specially trained Police Officer will explain the process all the way through and help you to make a statement about what has happened. There will also be people there who can help you with any medical concerns you might have.
If you feel unable to report it to the Police straight away, tell someone you trust. Students you can speak to college or university staff, including people at the Student's Union or your GP.
Organisations
Samaritans
http://www.samaritans.org/
Call
08457 90 90 90* (UK)
1850 60 90 90* (ROI)
Rape Crisis
http://www.rapecrisis.org.uk/
freephone helpline
0808 802 9999
12 - 2.30pm
7 - 9.30pm
NHS
http://www.nhs.uk/Livewell/Sexualhealth/Pages/Sexualassault.aspx
helpline:
0808 802 9999
The helpline is open 12-2.30pm and 7-9.30pm
Sexual assaults and rapes are serious offences, you will be treated with sensitivity and professionalism and without judgement, during what is undoubtedly a very difficult and upsetting time.