Sexual Abuse

Types of sexual abuse
• Rape, attempted rape or sexual assault
• Inappropriate touch anywhere
• Non- consensual masturbation of either or both persons
• Non- consensual sexual penetration or attempted penetration of the vagina, anus or mouth
• Any sexual activity that the person lacks the capacity to consent to
• Inappropriate looking, sexual teasing or innuendo or sexual harassment
• Sexual photography or forced use of pornography or witnessing of sexual acts
• Indecent exposure

Possible indicators of sexual abuse
• Bruising, particularly to the thighs, buttocks and upper arms and marks on the neck
• Torn, stained or bloody underclothing
• Bleeding, pain or itching in the genital area
• Unusual difficulty in walking or sitting
• Foreign bodies in genital or rectal openings
• Infections, unexplained genital discharge, or sexually transmitted diseases
• Pregnancy in a woman who is unable to consent to sexual intercourse
• The uncharacteristic use of explicit sexual language or significant changes in sexual behaviour or attitude
• Incontinence not related to any medical diagnosis
• Self-harming
• Poor concentration, withdrawal, sleep disturbance
• Excessive fear/apprehension of, or withdrawal from, relationships
• Fear of receiving help with personal care
• Reluctance to be alone with a particular person

Rape Crisis online 24/7 service to support victims of rape and sexual abuse aged 16 and over.

The service will support anyone who has been affected by rape, child sexual abuse, sexual assault, sexual harassment or any other form of sexual violence – at any point in their life. This includes people who have experienced sexual violence or abuse themselves, as well as their friends, family or anyone else who is trying to support them.

For more information please see the Rape Crisis website  https://247sexualabusesupport.org.uk/