If you are visiting this page because you have been affected by sexual misconduct, I can only imagine how overwhelmed you are likely to be feeling. In my work as a clinician, I have seen the damage that sexual violence causes.
As a university, we are committed to supporting you and guiding you on the options open to you. We understand how hard it is to disclose a case of sexual misconduct. We have recently reviewed relevant policies and procedures, and provided training and resources to assist staff who you may choose to talk to. They are ready to listen to you and help you, whatever you decide to do.
Professor Jenny Higham
If you have been affected by sexual assault, harassment or violence we are here to offer you advice and support.
Anyone can be affected by sexual assault regardless of gender or sexual orientation, but many people find it difficult to talk about and to seek help. No matter what the circumstances it is not your fault, we will treat you with respect and discretion and offer support according to your choices.
Consent and sexual violence/misconduct
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- Enthusiastic sexual consent (both giving and getting) is a crucial part of all sexual interactions and contributes to respectful, equal and fulfilling relationships. Any sexual activity that occurs without consent is against the law.
- Sexual consent online training module. Learn more about what's meant by sexual consent, legal definitions and more by completing this short and interactive online training module.
- Understanding consent: Special care must be taken by students to establish that their partner consents to any sexual encounter.
Your body is yours and yours alone. When it comes to your sexual health, whatever your gender or sexuality, it’s best to know all about your body.
Your health
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During your assault you might have been injured. It is important that you seek medical advice, even if it’s difficult to talk about it.
Emergency contraception can stop you getting pregnant after unprotected sex (sex without contraception or when contraception might have failed).
If you need emergency contraception, this should be started within 72 hours.
You can buy emergency contraception at most pharmacies or get it free of charge.
What are my options?
It's entirely your choice to disclose, report, or not to. If you are not sure, check the following information to make an informed decision.
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- Sexual assault referral centres (SARCs) are located across the country and available for everyone, regardless of gender, age, the type of incident, or when it happened. Forensic medical examinations can be arranged, even if you have not decided if you want to report the assault.
- The Havens are open 24/7 and can see you urgently for a forensic medical examination if necessary. It is best to have one forensic medical examination as soon as possible after an assault as there is a better chance of finding evidence that can identify the person who did it (try not to wash or changes clothes before a forensic examination. But it is your choice whether or not you have one. You can also agree to do some parts of the examination but not others. You can stop it at any time.
- NHS can provide help after sexual assault, including referral centres with specially trained medical staff.
University anonymous reporting
External anonymous reporting
- By speaking up, 100% anonymously, you can help stop violent crimes.
- You can request an informal chat with the police through Blue Sky Centre and they don’t need to know who you are.
University support
External support
- Call Security at 020 7825 0909 or call police at 999 in an emergency.
- You can also contact our Rape Crisis outreach service, a safe space to talk and get information and links to long term support: university.support@rasasc.org.uk.
- Call 24/7 Rape and Sexual Abuse Support Line: 0808 500 2222. A service for anyone aged 16+ in England and Wales who has been affected by rape, child sexual abuse, sexual assault, sexual harassment or any other form of sexual violence – at any point in their life.
- Refer yourself to London Survivors GatewayThe Gateway project works with any survivor aged 13 or above regardless of gender identity, sexuality, disability, chosen language, ethnicity or immigration status.
- Chat via SMS text with Survivors UK at 020 3322 1860. Survivors UK supports male and non-binary survivors of sexual violence, providing counselling, practical help and community on your healing journey.
- Call National Male Survivor Helpline at 0808 800 5005. Safeline provides dedicated services for male survivors of sexual violence for both adults and children and for those who support them living in England and Wales.
- Call Galop Helpline at 0800 999 5428. Galop helpline is for LGBT+ people experiencing abuse or violence, such as hate crime, domestic abuse, sexual violence, so-called “conversion therapy” or any other kind of abuse.
- Start a live chat with Victim Support. Victim Support provide specialist help to support people to cope and move on to the point where they feel they are back on track with their lives.
- Refer yourself to StopSO. StopSO offers private therapy to anyone who is worried or concerned about their sexual thoughts or behaviour.
We understand it can be difficult to talk about your experiences, but you are not alone. We are here to listen and support you.