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Rape
Being raped or sexually assaulted is a very distressing experience which can have long lasting effects. Whilst the majority of reported rapes are against women, male rape happens too, and the counselling service will offer support to all victims of rape. The majority of offences are committed by someone who is known to the person who is raped. People who are sexually assaulted may react in various ways. Some people scream or fight back while others may become quiet - too shocked to speak or cry out. Paralysed by fear, they may be unable to resist. If violence is threatened some people may decide not to struggle in the hope of getting away with the least amount of physical harm. Consequently they may or may not have torn clothes, signs of struggle or physical injuries after an assault.
Rape and sexual assault, whether by a stranger or a friend, is never the victim's fault. Rape and sexual assault are always more about the use of force or power to humiliate, control, hurt or violate someone than about sexual desire or passion. There is evidence to suggest that a very large number of attacks are premeditated. Anyone can suffer sexual assault or rape. People who have suffered sexual attacks describe feeling frightened, guilty, powerless, angry, ashamed, depressed, numb and/or lacking self-confidence. Sometimes they have difficulty eating or sleeping. They may lack concentration and find that this makes academic work difficult. Everyone reacts differently and it is not unusual for feelings to change from day to day or for there to be a long gap between the assault and the emotional reaction to it. It can be difficult to talk about the attack to friends or family, yet it is important to have understanding and support; making an appointment with someone at the counselling service is one way of doing this.
Other sources of support/information:
Bailrigg Health Centre- 01524 387780, www.kingstandunipractice.co.uk
Lancaster Police Station - 01524 63333
SAFE (Sexual Assault Forensic Examination Centre) , Preston tel 01772 523344. Forensic Medical examination, counselling and support for women, men and children who have experienced sexual assault or rape.
Rape Crisis - Free phone 0808 802 9999 - www.rapecrisis.org.uk
The organisation that offers support and resources to rape crisis groups across England and Wales, and raise the profile of rape and sexual abuse across the UK.
Survive- www.survive.org.uk offers information and advice about rape.
Women's Aid - 24-hour helpline Free phone - 0808 2000 247 - www.womensaid.org.uk
Women's Aid offers support and refuge for women and children affected by domestic violence.
Victim Support - 0845 30 30 900 - www.victimsupport.org.uk
Victim Support helps people cope with the effects of crime, including rape.
Lancaster University Mental Health Adviser and Wellbeing Advisor on - 01524 594512, or 01524 592692 www.lancs.ac.uk/sbs/mentalhealth/
IN AN EMERGENCY, EXT: 999 OR SECURITY 94541.
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