Supporting a Survivor of Sexual Violence
Professional guidance and resources to help prevent sexual violence and support those at risk of offending. Early intervention and support can help break cycles of harm
Understanding Your Supporting Role
Supporting someone who has experienced sexual abuse requires patience, understanding, and awareness. Your role as a supporter is to provide a safe, non-judgmental presence while respecting their choices and boundaries. Understanding how to respond appropriately can make a significant difference in their healing journey.
Common Challenges When Supporting Others
Many supporters face uncertainties when helping someone who has experienced sexual abuse. Understanding these challenges helps provide better support:
Uncertainty about what to say or do
Fear of making things worse
Difficulty managing your own emotions
Understanding boundaries and consent
Knowing when to encourage professional help
Balancing support with self-care
Understanding the Impact of Support
Providing Effective Support to Sexual Abuse Survivors
Believe their experiences without questioning or judgment. Your role is to listen and support, not investigate.
Let them make their own decisions about reporting or seeking help. Support their choices without pressure.
Educate yourself about trauma responses and recovery to better understand their experiences.
Survivor Resources & Research
Learning from other survivors journeys can be a powerful tool, and make you feel much less alone. Access specialist articles, survivor stories, and evidence-based research about childhood sexual violence recovery and support.
Articles and guides covering trauma responses, recovery stages, and practical support strategies for survivors of childhood sexual violence.
A curated collection of poems written by survivors of sexual abuse, sharing personal experiences of trauma, healing, and recovery. *Please note that whilst this content is moderated you may find some of it triggering so please take care*
Key findings from our research , revealing crucial insights into sexual violence and abuse, how survivors access support services, costs to the NHS and survivor experiences, and more
With your support, we can help more survivors access the support they need when they need it. Every donation directly funds our work to supporting those affected by sexual violence.
