Sexual Assault

If you've been sexually assaulted there are services that can help.

You don't have to report the assault to the police if you don't want to. Other services and organisations won't insist that you do. However, consider getting medical help as soon as possible because you may need to consider emergency contraception and PEP in certain situations.

If you have been raped or sexually assaulted we are often one of the first places people think of coming to for help.

Following an assault there are some options to consider:

• If you want to report it to the police it is a good idea to do that as soon as possible.
• If you are not sure about reporting it to the police you can attend a SARC (details below) or please come to the clinic where we can provide a full range of support, advice, screening, vaccinations, PEPSE, and emergency contraception.

We can also supply information about other agencies that you might like to consider contacting for ongoing support.

Useful numbers and contacts

SARC - Sexual Assault Referral Centre
Website: solacesarc.org.uk
Helpline: 0300 130 3036

There is a service based in Slough for forensic examinations (even if you haven't reported the incident to the police).

Reading Trust House Sexual Abuse Centre
Website: http://trusthousereading.org 
Helpline: 0779 156 7155

You can choose to speak to either a male or female support worker. Trust House Reading can arrange this when you call. 

For more help or advice you might like to look at the NHS websites page on help after rape and sexual assault.

Independent Sexual Violence Advisors (ISVAs)

Many specialist support agencies offer an Independent Sexual Violence Advisor (ISVA) service to victims of rape and sexual assault.

An ISVA is trained to look after your needs, and to ensure that you receive care and understanding. They will help you understand how the criminal justice proces works, and will explain things to you, such as what will happen if you report to the police if you want to, and the importance of forensic DNA retrieval.

An ISVA is there to provide you with information only, and you are not expected to report any offence to the police unless you wish to do so.

Berkshire Women's Aid

Website: www.berkshirewomensaid.org.uk
Helpline: 0118 950 4003