What to do if You have Recently been Raped

If you have just been raped you may still be in shock. Many people are not sure what to do next, and there is no right or wrong way to feel.

Here are some basic steps you can take:

• Try and get somewhere that feels safe, if you cannot, ring 999 and ask for Police or Ambulance
• Try and stay warm (this is to prevent shock)
• See if someone you trust can be with you
• Try and tell someone you trust or contact Rape Crisis (Women) Survive UK (Men)
• Remember what happened is not your fault, regardless of what others said
• It can be difficult to think ahead, but you could be at risk of STI’s, pregnancy or received other injuries

Medical Help

• Seek confidential medical help (trained nurses offering support, contraception, STI checks) at Hackenthorpe Lodge you do not have to tell the Police to access this service.
• Ring 999 or attend A & E

Should I report?

This is your choice, the responsibility for what happened lies with the perpetrator. By attending ‘Hackenthorpe Lodge’ DNA evidence can be captured and stored with no obligation to report whilst getting medical help.

If you want forensic evidence collected, try and avoid washing, drinking, smoking and try to not clean the place where it happened or change/wash any clothing you were wearing. Sometimes evidence can still be collected up to 72 hours later, but it is best to make contact as soon as you can.

You can speak with an ISVA about your options in confidence