Resources & Research

This page includes research and resources that we have both created and compiled from our member agencies and other organisations working to support survivors of sexual violence. These will be handy for understanding what happened, how you feel or for what to do next. These guides are also very useful for professionals and students looking to expand their knowledge.

Pregnancy, Birth and Parenthood after Childhood Sexual Abuse

This resource will help women who have experienced childhood sexual abuse (CSA) to prepare for pregnancy, birth and parenthood. Read more

Videos

The All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) for Adult Survivors of Child Sexual Abuse

Guides for LGBT+ Survivors

Guides for and about Children & Young People

Guides to Understanding & Healing

Guides for Adult Survivors of Childhood Sexual Abuse

Guides to Reporting and the Law

The injustice of justice: female sexual violence victims and the fear of coming forward by Imogen Cheatham

A dissertation submitted to the University of Sheffield for the partial fulfilment of the requirements for the award of the degree of BA in International Relations and Politics. Read more

'What Works; patient and stakeholder engagement for Sexual Assault Referral Centres’

NHS England worked with service users and key partners to develop the ‘What Works; patient and stakeholder engagement for Sexual Assault Referral Centres’ report. Read more

I didn't marry a monster

Marital ‘rape’ is a hidden recurring issue which people, mostly women, are reluctant to open up about. This video created by Ola and her partner Olu highlights the taboo issue and reminds those affected that help is available. Read more

Mesarch - Join a thousand voices for change!

This research is inviting over 1000 individuals who have attended a Sexual Assault Referral Centre in England to take part, to ‘join a thousand voices for change’. Read more

Sexual violence and COVID-19: all silent on the home front

In this article, Clare Gunby et al reflect on the framing of violence against women in mainstream media in the UK, and some policy documents and guidance, in the first four weeks of the COVID-19 induced lockdown. Read more

Disclosure of non-recent (historic) childhood sexual abuse: What should researchers do?

This paper highlights important considerations for Research Ethics Committees on the importance of preserving confidentiality of disclosures by adults of non-recent abuse. Read more

Victims' Code of Practice

The Ministry of Justice have published a simplified and updated Victims’ Code alongside the government response to its consultation: ‘Improving the Victims’ Code’. Read more

Survivors' Journeys - Survivors' Voices: Including the voice of survivors in commissioning support services

Survivors' Journeys - Survivors' Voices conference, held in October 2014, sought to redress the lack of survivors' voices and views on service development and commissioning processes. This report highlights the findings from the event. Read more

Latest

Calls for police chiefs to clarify the legal exemptions on face covering requirements to officers

Rights groups have urged police chiefs to clarify the legal exemptions on face covering requirements to officers, amid fears that disabled people “will be disproportionately impacted” by the latest crackdown on coronavirus laws.
I am Capable of Loving Too.

Sandra talks about her own experience of Childhood Sexual Abuse and how she found personal happiness with her partner.
Survivors' Journeys - Survivors' Voices: Including the voice of survivors in commissioning support services

Survivors' Journeys - Survivors' Voices conference, held in October 2014, sought to redress the lack of survivors' voices and views on service development and commissioning processes. This report highlights the findings from the event.
Christmas message from TST

We understand that for many survivors the festive period can be challenging. Combined with the challenges we have faced in 2020, it is understandable that you may be feeling more overwhelmed than ever this Christmas.

Find Specialist Support in your Area

The Survivors Trust has 124 member organisations based in the UK & Ireland which provide specialist support for women, men & children who have survived rape, sexual violence or childhood sexual abuse.
I didn't marry a monster

Marital ‘rape’ is a hidden recurring issue which people, mostly women, are reluctant to open up about. This video created by Ola and her partner Olu highlights the taboo issue and reminds those affected that help is available.
Taking care of yourself & I May Destroy You

It feels like everyone is talking about Michaela Coel’s newest creation I May Destroy You, a drama based on her experience of sexual assault. We want to offer up some tips for survivors thinking of watching the show as well as discuss some of the important topics covered in the series.
Sexual Assault Referral Centres (SARC)

SARCs (sexual assault referral centres) are specialist medical and forensic services for anyone who has been raped or sexually assaulted. They are designed to be comfortable and multi-functional, providing private space for interviews and forensic examinations, and some may also offer sexual health and counselling services.
My Experience of EMDR & Treating Trauma

Steph talks about how Eye-Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing Therapy helped her to heal after her experience of rape.
National Helplines
I Am A Survivor

Calais talks about her experience, and shares the message 'if you are suffering you’re not alone and although it’s hard, you will get through this'
TST Supportline hours extended

Thanks to funding from the MoJ COVID-19 Response Fund our free national Supportline is now open 7 days a week. We're here to talk, to listen and to believe.
Data charges removed for websites supporting victims of crime

The UK’s major telecoms companies have agreed their customers’ mobile phone data won’t be used up if they’re seeking information and support online. Access to websites supporting some of the most vulnerable victims of crime will be free of charge during the coronavirus pandemic, thanks to a new deal brokered by the Government.
Petition: Make all sexual abuse offences exceptions under the double jeopardy rules

"Many victims will never be able to obtain justice or closure from the criminal courts as the law currently stands as their charges are not deemed "serious" or "severe" enough to be an exception to the double jeopardy rules."