Surviving sexual assault

Male or female, here's how to cope if you're the victim of rape or sexual assault.

Know your rights

UK sex laws make it an offence for any male or female to sexually penetrate or touch another person without their consent (permission). In basic terms, this means you have every right to say no to any kind of unwanted sexual advance.

Protect your rights

Here's our smart six for protecting your sexual welfare:

• Put your safety first at all times. Whether you're at work, in town or on a date, think ahead as much as you can, and avoid situations that make you feel uncomfortable.
• Be clear about boundaries. Everyone has the right to express themselves freely and feel safe from harm. Just be clear about your boundaries to minimise the risk of mixed signals, and if someone oversteps the mark them let them know at the earliest opportunity. Any kind of unwanted sexual advance is inexcusable, of course, but it might prevent such a situation from happening altogether.
• Alcohol and drugs can lower inhibitions. Be aware of your limits, and cautious of drink offers from people you dont know (to minimise the risk of knocking back something spiked with sedative).
• Keep good company. Stick with friends where possible, and if you do find yourself with individuals or people you don't know, put your personal safety first. This means thinking one step ahead all the time, and avoiding situations that make you feel uncomfortable.
• Be street smart. Wherever you are, day or night, it's always worth travelling visibly. This means sticking to populated routes (and well-lit areas at night), and knowing where you're going at all times.
• Avoid confrontation. Do not meet aggression with aggression, as this is likely to escalate the situation. Talk your way out of problems - stay calm, speak gently, slowly and clearly. If you are trapped or in danger, yell or scream. Your voice is your best defence. Shout, Phone the police or other specific instructions that people can understand easily.

If you have been the victim of a sexual assault or rape:

• Find a place of safety. This means getting away from your attacker, preferably to a public place.  If you think you're being followed then make as much noise as you can to attract other people's attention;
• Report what has happened.  Don't keep quiet. It's vital that you inform the police at the earliest opportunity. If you're female, most police stations have female officers trained to deal with victims of sexual offences in a sensitive way. You can also take a friend or family member along if it helps. Ultimately, reporting the crime could prevent anyone else from becoming a victim;
• Don't change your clothes, shower, bathe or wash, until you have reported the incident. It may be needed for forensic evidence;
• Examination made easier. You've been through a traumatic time, and people will recognise this. In cases of sexual abuse or rape, the police will arrange for you to be seen by a doctor. You can ask to be examined by a same-sex GP, if it makes you feel more comfortable. They can arrange medical attention for trauma and shock, sexually transmitted infections, emergency contraception, and put you in touch with local counselling services.