In an emergency



Reporting a rape or sexual assault


Reporting sexual violence to police can be done in a number of ways: by phone, at a police station, via a third party, directly or anonymously.

If the crime has recently happened

  • Keep the clothes you were wearing, don’t wash them but put them in a clean bag if available. The police will need them as evidence for the investigation
  • Do not shower, brush your teeth or hair, as there may be evidence that the police can use.

The Police

If you don’t want to report it to the police

There is more information about the SARC at
Phone: 01234 897052

You can also access Hope’s therapy services directly from the SARC if you wish.
What happens next?


  • Give you support and advice
  • Explain what happens next

The police and the SARC can put you in touch with an Independent Sexual Violence Adviser (ISVA) who will help you through the investigative and judicial processes and with access to other services such as counselling, housing and health.