If you think you have been sexually assaulted, it may be hard to know what to do or how to feel. What happened was not your fault. What you do next is your choice.
Think
- Are you in immediate danger? If you are in immediate danger or seriously injured on campus you can call the Brunel Security Team on 01895 255786. If you are off campus, contact the Emergency Services on 999.
- Find a safe space. If an incident has just happened try and find somewhere you feel safe. If this isn't possible and you are scared or fearful you can call the Brunel Security Team on 01895 255786 or the Emergency services on 999.
- What is sexual assault. This section describes the different types of sexual assault that a person can experience.
Talk
- To a friend. Talking things through with someone you trust can sometimes help.
- Independent Sexual Violence Advisors (ISVAs). You can find an ISVA location close to you here . ISVAs are people who are trained to look after the needs of a survivor of rape or sexual violence to ensure they receive the best possible care and understanding. Contact them and ask to speak to an advisor in confidence. ISVAs are there to provide information to ensure an individual can make a decision that is right for them.
- The Havens: A group of Sexual Assault Referral Centres in London, offering support for anyone who has been sexually assaulted or raped. We have specially trained, experienced professionals who can give you medical help and advice, counselling and psychology, sexual health screening, and practical and emotional support. The havens can offer forensic medical examinations 24/7, psychology and counselling sessions Monday – Friday and also therapy workshops for individuals, families and carers. For more information, please visit www.thehavens.org.uk or call 0203 299 2599.
- Survivors UK: This chairty are seeking to break down the myths and taboo surrounding male rape and sexual abuse, thereby hoping to create an environment in which male survivors feel safe to disclose. Furthermore, as an organisation, we offer a range of support services including counselling and therapy appointments as well as online chat. All services are provided by trained professionals who as specialists in the field of male sexual violence have helped many men to work through their experiences. SurvivorsUK was established as a service for male survivors, however we are an inclusive service and welcome anyone who identifies as male, trans, non-binary, has identified as male in the past, or anyone who feels that we are the right fit for them.
- The London Survivors Gateway: This is the hub for sexual violence support services, a partnership between London Rape Crisis Centres, Galop, Survivors UK and The Havens. There is an online referral form for reporting abuse. It would be useful to have this on the Sexual Violence page.
Report
It is important that students and staff feel able to report an incident and/or access support without fear of disciplinary action. Those who report an incident of bullying, harassment or sexual violence will not be subject to disciplinary action by the University if they breached Covid-19 restrictions at the time of the incident.
- Reporting to the police. If you're thinking of reporting to the police, rape crisis have produced a useful list of things to think about.
- Reporting the incident anonymously. You can call crime stoppers at any point on 0800 555 111 or use their online form.
- Report and Support. Students and staff can report an incident using the University’s Report and Support system. You can choose to do this anonymously or you can make a report with contact details. If you choose to report with contact details, a member of the Student Support and Welfare Team will be able to talk through the options and support available to you.
Get Support
Mental Health and Wellbeing
1 in 4 people is affected by a mental health problem in any year and it is estimated that around 1 in 5 people has contemplated suicide or self-harm.
- Find out more on the support available for mental health and wellbeing.
- Take care of yourself. It’s important that you take care of yourself. If you’ve heard something distressing or if something is troubling you, you can let us know via this site or contact the Student Support and Welfare Team.