This information is aimed at sample takers, but may also be helpful for other clinical and non-clinical professionals.
Also in this section:
- How a survivor of sexual violence may feel about cervical screening >
- Providing emotional support to survivors of sexual violence >
- Providing practical support to survivors of sexual violence >
- Read our report on survivors' experience of cervical screening >
Signposting to expert organisations or professionals may be very helpful for someone who has experienced sexual violence. However, any offer of further help must be done gently and without pressure, with the understanding that it is that person’s choice whether to take it.
Read Mind’s information on supporting someone to seek help >
Patients who have disclosed, or those you suspect have, a history of sexual violence may benefit from other sexual health services. They may require direct referral for emotional and psychological support such as talking therapies.
You may also want to signpost them to specialist sexual violence organisations, who can offer the expert support they need. The following national organisations are a good starting point, but it's also worth researching dedicated sexual violence services in the local area, and having leaflets or information cards on hand. Remember, most organisations can also support family, friends and professionals like you who are supporting survivors.
Rape Crisis England & Wales
Provides information and support to survivors of sexual violence across England and Wales.
Freephone 0808 802 9999 (12 to 2.30pm, then 7 to 9.30pm, every day)
www.rapecrisis.org.uk
Rape Crisis Scotland
Provides information and support to survivors of sexual violence across Scotland.
Freephone 0808 801 0302 (6pm to 12am, every day)
Email support@rapecrisisscotland.org.uk
www.rapecrisisscotland.org.uk
Nexus NI
Offers free counselling for people who have experienced sexual violence across Northern Ireland.
http://nexusni.org/
My Body Back Project
Offers support to women to reclaim control of their body after sexual violence. Also runs specialist cervical screening and sexual health clinics offering cervical screening and STI testing in London and Glasgow, for women and non-binary and/or trans people who have experienced sexual violence.
www.mybodybackproject.com
National Association for People Abused in Childhood (NAPAC)
Offers support to adult survivors of childhood abuse, including a free support line and email support service.
Support line 0808 801 0331 (10am to 9pm, Monday to Thursday, and 10am to 6pm on Friday)
https://napac.org.uk/
Galop
Provides confidential, independent advice and support for LGBT+ survivors of sexual violence.
Sexual Assault Casework and Support Service 0207 704 2040
www.galop.org.uk
The Survivors Trust
A national umbrella agency for 130 specialist organisations in the UK that offer support to people who have experienced sexual violence. It has a free, confidential helpline.
Helpline 0808 801 0818
http://thesurvivorstrust.org