Rape and sexual assault
Rape can happen to anyone.
It can happen to women, men, children, people of all ages and social groups.
It is often a terrifying and traumatic experience that can have a profound and long lasting impact on victims for many years – sometimes forever.
‘Stranger’ rapes, committed by a person not known to the victim, are relatively rare, and most rapes and sexual assaults are carried out by someone the victim knows.
Rape occurs in families, in relationships and within marriages, and offenders often take advantage of vulnerable or powerless people.
It can be extremely difficult for victims of rape or sexual assault to come forward to police for a variety of different reasons.
Some victims mistakenly think they are to blame, or fear they will not be taken seriously by police or that their integrity will be questioned. Others remain silent out of fear of repercussions from their attacker.
Victims can be assured that Nottinghamshire Police takes all reports of rape and sexual assault extremely seriously and they will be treated with sensitivity, compassion and respect.
The force has specialist rape investigation teams, made up of expert and experienced detectives who are specially trained to support victims and bring offenders to justice.
The criminal justice system can be daunting and complicated, but the expert investigators will be on hand to explain the process to victims and to offer continued and sensitive support throughout.
Watch this video - Look what you did
Based on real experiences, ‘Look what you did’ is a short film highlighting the work of the Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC) in helping three victims of rape and sexual assault.
The film follows the journey the victims took and the difficulties they faced following the assault.
Produced by Norfolk and Suffolk Constabulary, the film encourages victims to contact their local SARC, which has helped many people to rebuild their life and confidence.
Nottingham’s SARC, also known as the Topaz Centre, is an independent service offered to victims of rape and other serious sexual offences.
Victims will be provided with advice on the options that are available to them and receive healthcare support in terms of sexual health screening and access to a counseling service.
Contact them on 0845 600 1588. Alternatively, visit the Topaz Centre website or email support@topazcentre.org.uk
