Support for Survivors
Survivors of sexual assault may not tell anyone for a long time,
They may never tell anyone what happened to them.
If a survivor discloses to you,
- • The most important thing is to reassure them that you believe them.
- • Be aware that speaking about the incident(s) can cause significant trauma and may lead to thoughts and feelings that they are reliving what happened to them.
- • Never push someone to tell you more details if they are uncomfortable doing so.
- • Be aware that not everyone will want to report to the police but, if you are in a role that requires you to report what they have told you, explain to them what you are going to do and why.
- • If safeguarding does not apply, ask them what they would like you to do – it may be to help them find some support, to go with them to report to police, or they might not know what they want to do next – give them time.
Survivors of sexual violence and assault need specialist support.
The impact of events can be long-lasting and often cause significant trauma.
Some survivors may require support with their mental health. Some mental health diagnoses around trauma use the word ‘disorder’ – ie Post Traumatic Stress Disorder – but it’s important to recognise that trauma is a normal human reaction to a distressing event.
Some survivors seek support around their specific circumstances – this could be from organisations that support survivors of childhood abuse, male survivors or survivors who are LGBTQIA+
Safeguarding Procedures can be found at
Cambridgeshire & Peterborough Safeguarding Partnership Board (safeguardingcambspeterborough.org.uk)
Specialist Support
Select each of the following headings to find out what specialist support is available for survivors of sexual violence and abuse.
Independent Sexual Violence Advisers (ISVAs) provide specialist support to victims and survivors of sexual violence. This can be emotional support as well as practical support with things like liaising with police or court. ISVA support is available whether the person chooses to report to the police or not.
ChISVAS are specialist ISVAs who work with children who have experienced sexual violence or abuse. They can help to liaise and talk to (non-abusing) family members and also with social care and schools.
A Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC) provides a safe space and dedicated care for anyone who has been raped, sexually assaulted or abused. They offer a range of services, including crisis care, medical and forensic examinations, emergency contraception and testing for sexually transmitted infections.
Survivors can get support from a SARC whether or not they choose to report to the police.
Counselling and therapeutic support is provided by qualified and experienced counsellors. It usually has a trauma-focused approach and is led by the survivor and what they wish to talk about.