Get Informed

Definitions of Sexual Violence

It can be hard to come to terms with what happened and even harder to understand how it is defined in the law. Here are the most current definitions of sexual violence in the Sexual Offences Act 2003. Read more

The Effects of Sexual Violence

The long-term effects of sexual violence (whether that is childhood sexual abuse, sexual harassment, rape etc.) can include many emotional, psychological and physical conditions. The experience of sexual assault or abuse at any age and whether male or female can have devastating effects on every aspect of a person’s being and life – on their mind, their body, their behaviour, thoughts and feelings. Read more

About Sexual Violence & Abuse

Sexual violence and abuse is any behaviour of a sexual nature which is unwanted and takes place without consent or understanding. This includes rape, sexual assault, sexual harassment, childhood sexual abuse, female genital mutilation and more. Read more

How to Support a Survivor

When someone tells you they’ve been sexually assaulted or abused, it can be a lot to handle. A supportive reaction is essential to diminish any shame or blame the survivor usually takes on after abuse. Encouraging words and phrases can avoid judgement and show support for the survivor. Read more

Latest

Poetry by Katherine
Our Team

Find out more about our committed TST team members.
#CheckWithMeFirst Resources

Resources and learning materials for NHS London trauma-informed awareness campaign for healthcare professionals.
Donate to support The Survivors Trust's Live Chat service

Help support The Survivors Trust Live chat service, and be in with a chance to win a custom Miu Miu dress, courtesy of Emma Corrin, star of Netflix's The Crown.

Find Specialist Support in your Area

The Survivors Trust has 120 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.
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.
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.
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.
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'
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.
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."