If someone you know has been recently raped or sexually assaulted, it can be a very distressing and confusing time for you both.

You can help to support the person who has been assaulted by;

  • Explaining what their options are and what happens next.
  • Contacting Hope House SARC or accompanying them to the nearest Police station.
  • Helping them to feel safe.
  • Listening to them and supporting them through the recovery process.
If they want to report to the police

Call 101 or 999

A specially trained Police Officer will speak to them about what has happened. They may wish to speak to you too.

With their consent, the Police will arrange for them to attend Hope House SARC so that we can assess their medical needs, collect any forensic evidence that could be used in an investigation and also offer them practical and emotional support, including counselling.

You can attend Hope House SARC with them (if they would like you to). We have free parking facilities directly outside.

After the examination, the Police will arrange for them to attend a video interview.  An Independant Sexual Violence Advisor (ISVA) can support them when they meet with the Police for this interview.

If they are unsure about reporting to the Police

Reassure them that it’s okay to feel unsure and that they are in control of any decision they make.

They can call us on 0300 421 8400 to talk to one of our specially trained Crisis Workers. They might ask that you call us on their behalf. This is okay too.

We can arrange for a specialist Doctor or Nurse to examine them, to check that they are OK. We can also collect and store forensic evidence in case they change their mind later. With their consent, we will store their samples for two years, giving them time to decide.

You can attend Hope House SARC with them (if they would like you to). We have free parking facilities directly outside.

We will make sure all of their sexual health needs are looked after and will offer them practical and emotional support, including counselling.