Sexual abuse

Sexual abuse is unacceptable and can affect anyone regardless of gender, sexuality, religion, race, or disability.

It can be defined as any behaviour perceived to be of a sexual nature which is unwanted and takes place without consent or understanding. Some types of sexual abuse include:

  • rape and attempted rape
  • assault by penetration
  • child sexual abuse
  • sexual touching
  • sexual harassment
  • indecent exposure

It is not uncommon for a victim of sexual abuse to have no physical injuries or signs of an assault. Support is available if you think this has happened to you or someone you know.

Your Journey – sexual violence: a survivor's guide to support and reporting

'Your Journey – sexual violence: a survivor's guide to support and reporting' has been launched in Derbyshire.

First launched in February 2020, Your Journey was written by Nottingham-based Consent Coalition, with input from survivors. It gently looks at the decisions a person might make following an incident of sexual violence. This includes sections on:

  • specialist support services
  • decisions, choices and options
  • myth busting
  • independent sexual violence advisors (ISVA)
  • reporting to the police
  • sexual assault referral centre (SARC)
  • police investigations
  • criminal justice process

The Derbyshire guide can be viewed and downloaded and printed from Consent Coalition, or from Derbyshire Victim Services which includes a flipbook version. This makes the guide easily found and accessed by all people, including survivors, their supporters and professionals.

Supporting Victims of Sexual Violence (SV2)

Supporting Victims of Sexual Violence (SV2) offers support to anyone who is affected by sexual abuse in Derbyshire and Derby. They work to inform, support, protect and empower people through advocacy and therapy.

Referrals can be made via the website, or telephone: 01773 746115 (Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm), or email help@sv2.org.uk

Millfield House Sexual Abuse Referral Centre (SARC)

The Millfield House Sexual Abuse Referral Centre (SARC) provides the opportunity for medical examinations, confidential healthcare and compassionate support for adults (18 years and older) who have experienced any form of sexual assault.

Telephone: 01332 413 260 (open 24 hours per day, 7 days per week, all year around) to speak with a nurse and discuss options for making an appointment and referrals.

For those under 18-years-old, the provider is East Midlands Children and Young People's Sexual Assault Service.

Sexual Abuse and Incest Line (SAIL)

Sexual Abuse and Incest Line (SAIL) offers free, specialist counselling and a helpline for adults aged over 18 in Derbyshire who have experienced childhood sexual abuse, incest or sexual violence.

Telephone: 01246 559 889 for referrals and enquiries.

Helpline telephone: 0800 028 2678 (check website for opening hours).