Sexual assault and rape
Sexual assault and rape can happen to anyone, whatever their gender or sexual orientation.
What is sexual violence?
Sexual violence is any kind of unwanted sexual act or activity.
This includes rape and sexual assault, child sexual abuse, unwanted touching, sexual harassment, and other unwanted sexual activity.
It does not matter what it was that happened, how long ago it was, or who it was that hurt you.
You do not have to cope on your own.
- Sexual assault is never your fault
- Sexual assault can happen to anyone
- Sexual assault can happen in relationships
- If you have been sexually assaulted, there are services that can help you
- It is not uncommon for a survivor of sexual assault to have no physical injuries or signs of their assault
- Sexual assault is a crime and can be reported to the police in the same way as other crimes
- Get medical help as soon as possible, because you may be at risk of pregnancy or sexually transmitted infections
Rape and sexual assault are against the law. You should tell someone that you trust. Your safety and wellbeing are important.
You can get support from
A clinic or drop in across Lothian
Young people aged 13 and older can get free, confidential sexual health support and treatment at clinics and drop ins across Edinburgh, East, West and Mid Lothian. Staff are there to listen and work with you to identify what support is best.
The STAR project
STAR offer confidential, emotional and practical support to young people, including all members of the trans community and non-binary people, aged 12 to 18 in Edinburgh and the Lothians, who have experienced rape, sexual assault, sexual abuse, sexual bullying, or circulation of an intimate picture without your consent.
If you want to speak to someone confidentially all you need to do is say ‘Hi’ via text: 07908 663512 or email: star@ercc.scot
The sexual assault response co-ordination service (SARCS)
If you are 16 and over you can turn to SARCS. Their self-referral phone service can can help to arrange care for you in the days following a rape or sexual assault. After you phone, the healthcare professional at the SARCS will phone you back to discuss and arrange your care with a local healthcare professional.
If you are under 16, when you phone the sexual assault self-referral phone service you will be listened to, and will get support and help. The person you speak to will make a decision about your immediate safety. They will then take your details and pass them to a healthcare professional – this could be a doctor or a nurse, for example.
