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I've Just Been Assaulted, What Can I Do?

HELP IS AVAILABLE, WE'RE HERE FOR YOU

Experiencing sexual violence is deeply traumatic, and there is no right way to feel. You may be overwhelmed, numb, frightened, angry, confused, or unsure on what to do next.

Whatever you're feeling is valid. What matters most is your safety and knowing that support is available.

We’ve provided some gentle guidance on what you can do in the immediate aftermath, along with information about where you can turn for help.

Understanding the Possible Effects of Sexual Violence

Sexual violence affects everyone differently. People of all genders, ages, and backgrounds can experience a wide range of emotional, physical, and psychological responses - sometimes immediately, sometimes days or weeks later. These reactions are normal responses to trauma, not signs of weakness or failure.

Emotional & Psychological Effects

Many survivors describe experiencing:

Shock, numbness, or feeling disconnected
Fear, anxiety, or panic
Confusion or difficulty concentrating
Shame or self‑blame, even though the assault was not your fault
Anger, frustration, or irritability
Sadness, grief, or hopelessness
Flashbacks or intrusive memories
Feeling on edge or hyper‑alert

These reactions can come and go, or change over time. They are your mind’s way of trying to make sense of something overwhelming.

Physical Effects

Survivors may notice:

Shaking, trembling, or feeling cold (often linked to shock)
Nausea or changes in appetite
Headaches, fatigue, or difficulty sleeping
Aches, soreness, or injuries from the assault
Changes in sexual feelings or responses

If you have any injuries or health concerns, you can seek medical care without needing to report to the police.

Serenity, Northamptonshire’s Sexual Assault Referral Centre, offers 24/7 medical support for anyone who has been assaulted .

Social & Relationship Effects

You might find yourself:

Wanting to withdraw from others
Feeling unable to talk about what happened
Worrying about being believed
Feeling distant from friends, partners, or family
Struggling to trust people

These responses are understandable. You deserve support that respects your pace and boundaries.

Longer Term Effects

Some survivors experience:

Ongoing anxiety or low mood
Post‑traumatic stress responses
Avoidance of certain places or situations
Changes in confidence or self‑esteem
Feeling disconnected from your body or emotions

With the right support, many people find they begin to feel more grounded, safe, and in control again.

Get Support - Steps to Safety

You're Not Alone

Steps to Safety

1. Prioritise Your Immediate Safety

If you are still in danger or feel unsafe:

Call 999.
If you cannot speak safely, press 55 after dialling 999 to alert the operator that you need help without speaking.
If you need urgent medical attention, call for an ambulance or go directly to A&E.

2. Reach Out to Someone You Trust

If it feels possible, try to be with a friend, family member, neighbour, or someone who helps you feel grounded. You don’t need to explain everything — even saying “I need support right now” is enough.

If you don’t feel ready to talk to someone you know, you can call the NRC Helpline on 0300 222 59 30 to speak confidentially with a specialist sexual violence advisor.

3. Consider Getting Medical or Emotional Care

You do not have to report to the police to receive help.

Serenity, Northamptonshire’s Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC), is open 24/7 and offers:

Medical care
Emergency contraception
Pregnancy testing
STI testing
Forensic examination (only if you choose)
Support from trained professionals who understand trauma

Serenity supports women, men, and young people who have been raped or sexually assaulted, and their services are available to anyone living in Northamptonshire. 24/7 number: 01604 601713

4. You Are in Control of Every Decision

All support at NRC is voluntary. You choose:

Whether to report to the police
Whether to have a forensic examination
Whether to talk about what happened
When and how you seek support

You don’t have to report anything to the police to get help from NRC.

A Moment for You

Take things one step at a time. Trauma can make decisions feel overwhelming, and it’s okay to move at your own pace.

5. Emotional Support Is Available

If the NRC helpline is closed when you call, they will get back to you as soon as they can. Serenity and other national services can also offer immediate support. ADD RCEW NATIONAL HELPLINE HERE.