Finding Help: Charities and Resources Available for Survivors of Sexual Abuse

Experiencing sexual abuse at any age can be deeply traumatic, irrespective of age, race or background, and can carry lasting physical, emotional or psychological scars. 

Throughout our series of blogs this week, we have tried to raise awareness for how survivors of sexual abuse and sexual violence can be better understood, protected and supported. 

In light of this, we wanted to end by highlighting a few of the many UK organisations that offer advice and assistance to victims, providing everything from helplines and counselling to legal representation. 

NAPAC (the National Association for People Abused in Childhood)

NAPAC are one of our key partners at Jordans. They offer thirty-minute, victim-led telephone calls through their support helpline 10am-9pm Monday to Thursday and 10am-6pm on Fridays. The key purpose of NAPAC is to help empower survivors of abuse by allowing them a dedicated time to speak about their experience, taking control of their recovery in a non-judgemental space.

Volunteer staff at NAPAC are specially trained to signpost individuals based on their unique experience, needs and location.

Useful NAPAC resources:

• NAPAC helpline: 0808 801 0331
• NAPAC website: https://napac.org.uk

NSPCC (The National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children)

The NSPCC operate a telephone service commonly known as ‘Childline’, offering advice on abuse prevention and recovery, as well as direct therapeutic and educational services. 

As an organisation operated specifically for the protection of children currently experiencing abuse during childhood, and the parents of children who might be at risk, the NSPCC is able to exercise statutory powers to take safeguarding action.

Useful NSPCC resources:

• NSPCC helpline: 0808 800 5000
• Childline: 0800 1111
• NSPCC website: https://www.nspcc.org.uk 

Safeline 

Safeline is another UK-wide charity focused on helping survivors of sexual abuse and sexual violence. They provide free online chat, telephone and face-to-face counselling services for both individuals and families, including the National Male Survivor Helpline. 

Safeline also provide support through their Independent Sexual Violence Advocates programme, whereby trained advocates can attend meetings with victims, as well as providing both legal advice and guidance when dealing with other support agencies. This service primarily operates in the Warwickshire and Coventry area.

Useful Safeline resources: 

• Safeline telephone: 01926 402 498
• National Male Survivor Helpline: 0808 800 5005
• Web page: https://safeline.org.uk/our-services/

Survivors UK

Specialising in supporting male survivors of sexual abuse, Survivors UK is a key resource for men who have experienced sexual violence, including during childhood. Similar to many of the other organisations on this list, the charity offer a confidential helpline and online support, including 45 minute one-to-one counselling and group therapy sessions.

Survivors UK state that their key aim is to raise more awareness about the extent to which male sexual abuse occurs in the UK and to advocate for better services and support, having helped thousands on their road to recovery.

Useful Survivors UK resources:

• Text line: 020 3322 1860
• Telephone line, operated daily from 12-8pm: 020 3598 3898
• Email: [email protected]
• Website: https://www.survivorsuk.org

Rape Crisis England & Wales

Rape Crisis offer specialist support through a 24/7 hotline for those who believe they may have been a victim of rape. The line is open to anyone, whether they are seeking immediate help, long-term support, or wish to speak about a historic rape they experienced.

Rape Crisis also offer face-to-face services through a network of local centres, aiming to ensure victims feel comfortable and empowered to access support in a safe space, however they choose to do so.

Useful Rape Crisis resources:

• Helpline for those aged +16: 0808 500 2222
• Website: https://247sexualabusesupport.org.uk

How Jordans can help?

At Jordans Solicitors, we understand the profound impact that sexual abuse and sexual violence can have on an individual’s life. Our team is highly trained and experienced in providing confidential and compassionate legal representation to those seeking justice and compensation for their experience. 

We work closely with charities, such as the above mentioned NAPAC and Safeline, to ensure our clients have access to emotional and practical support, should they need it. 

If you, or someone you know, is a survivor of abuse, contact Jordans Solicitors for a confidential consultation by telephoning 08009555094 or 03303001103.