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Find the nearest to meHelp if you have been sexually assaulted
Sexual Abuse
You can report the assault to the police straight away, or attend an Accident and Emergency department if you need medical help.
Dial 999 if the incident has just taken place, or if you are in immediate danger. Alternatively, call your local police on 101, or go to your nearest police station.
However, you don’t have to report the assault to police if you don’t want to.
Other help and support
The Bridge Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC) provides medical, practical and emotional support. The Centre perform forensic examinations (see below). An examination can be arranged if the assault was within the last seven days – or longer if you have visible injuries, e.g. bruising.
A forensic examination can help to provide evidence against the person who assaulted you. If you are unsure about whether or not you want to report the assault to the police at this time, there are different options you can consider. For example, the forensic evidence can be collected and stored by the SARC to give you more time to decide.
You do not have to report to the police if you attend the SARC. It is your choice. Specially trained staff at the SARC can give you further information to help you to decide. They will support you whatever you decide.
You can call The Bridge 24-hour phone line on 0117 342 6999 and their website is www.thebridgecanhelp.org.uk
Somerset & Avon Rape & Sexual Abuse Support
SARSAS provide support to people who have experienced rape or any kind of sexual assault or abuse at any time in their lives.
They offer a help line
- for women and girls - 0808 801 0456 Monday & Friday 11am - 2pm; Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday 6pm - 8:30pm
- for men and boys - 0808 801 0464 Monday 11am - 2pm; Tuesday 6pm - 8:30pm
Their website is www.sarsas.org.uk or Tel. 01823 324 944
