Rape and Sexual Assault
A sexual assault can range from inappropriate touching to a life-threatening attack involving violence and rape.
A sexual assault may leave no outward sign as there are not always visible injuries, but may cause immense distress and feelings of violation. It is a serious crime to pressure or force someone to have sex, or engage in sexual activity with them, knowing they do not consent. Anyone can be raped or sexually assaulted regardless of their sex, gender or sexuality.
Whatever the situation, your relationship with the person, wherever you were, whatever you were wearing or you were drinking or taking - you did not ask to be raped or sexually assaulted and it was not your fault.
Forcing someone to take part in sexual activity against their will is about power, control and violence. It has nothing to do with sexual desire, love or passion. All sex without consent is rape.
If you have been raped or sexually assaulted, no matter what the circumstances or who was involved, remember that it wasn’t your fault. You can find out the support organisations available in your area or find out how to report sexual assault to the police.
Sexual assault on a night out
Unfortunately sexual assault in pubs and clubs is an increasingly common occurrence.
Surveys conducted by Avon and Somerset Police in Bristol City Centre show that sexual assault during a night out is affecting a large proportion of people, and yet the vast majority do not report it.
The assaults described ranged from bum pinching or grabbing, hands up skirts or down tops, being pushed up against the bar and assaulted from behind, being touched sexually on other parts of the body, as well as other things.
If you are assaulted whilst on a night out you should:
- remove yourself from any dangerous or uncomfortable situation as quickly as possible
- find a member of staff and tell them about the incident, describing the perpetrator(s) if you can
- ensure an incident report is completed. Procedures vary between venues but its important relevant information is logged
- notify the police if you feel comfortable to do so, or ask the venue for support. The police will always listen and believe you. You can report a sexual assault or rape online to the police. Always call 999 in an emergency or if someone is in immediate danger.
Here Lottie shares her experience of sexual assault on nights out with her friends.
If you have been impacted by sexual assault, you can reach out to support organisations in your area for support, or report a sexual assault or rape online to the police. Always call 999 in an emergency or if someone is in immediate danger.
All sex without consent is rape. If you have been raped or sexually assaulted, no matter what the circumstances or who was involved, remember that it was not your fault.