Reporting Sexual Abuse

Can I report sexual abuse years later?

Sexual abuse can be reported at any time, no matter how many months, years, or decades it has been. If you or anyone you know has been subjected to sexual abuse, get in touch with our solicitor without delay as they can guide you on the next steps, as well as how to get due justice and get adequate compensation.

While we do recommend that incidents of sexual abuse, assault, or rape are reported to the Police as soon as possible, we also understand that it may be very difficult for you to come forward with your account.

Can you be sexually abused and not remember?

Yes, this is entirely possible and, in fact, not uncommon.

Evidence from multiple studies indicates that it is not uncommon for victims of sexual abuse to have any recognisable or explicit memories of the incident.

For example, young children or adults do not realise at the time that what was happening was indeed sexual abuse. Years later or, in some cases, decades later, they realise that they were subjected to sexual abuse.

There may be a number of signs indicating that you were abused as a child or young adult. Not ignoring these signs is very important and if you believe you were subjected to any kind of sexual abuse months, years, or even decades ago, do not hesitate to consult our friendly solicitor who can guide you on the next steps.

How do you report sexual abuse?

We recommend calling 999/101 immediately to report sexual abuse, sexual assault, or rape, and as soon as the incident occurs. If the incident has recently occurred, do not remove or wash the clothes you were wearing at the time and do not shower, as the Police may need to collect evidence in order to identify and pursue legal action against the perpetrator.

Sexual abuse can also be reported online to the Police or you can visit your local Police station to report it in person to an officer.

Alternatively, you may also call the national non-emergency number (101) to report what happened and/or get general advice.

If, for some reason, you do not wish to report the matter to the Police, you can contact organisations like SARC (Sexual Assault Referral Centre) and ISVA (Independent Sexual Violence Advisor service).

We would strongly recommend reporting the matter to the Police at the first possible opportunity but it is always your decision whether to or not. It’s always a matter for you and your decision should be respected.

You can of course, always speak to one of our solicitors (whether you have reported to the Police or not) to get advice.

How to report historical sexual abuse

According to the UK Criminal Justice System, sexual abuse occurring more than 28 days ago is categorised as ‘historic’ or ‘non-recent’.

To register a historical sexual abuse report, you can:

• Call the national helpline on 101
• Go to your local Police station
• Ask a solicitor to file a report on your behalf

When going to the Police, ensure you have the following information handy:

• Your full name and contact information
• The name of the accused or alleged perpetrator
• The place of the incident
• The dates on which the incident occurred

If you’re not sure the perpetrator is traceable or not, or whether he/she is alive or dead, you can report the matter to the Police, nevertheless. However, whether you have filed a report or not, you may be able to still get justice and compensation. Contact our friendly solicitor to get expert and tailored guidance on what to do next.

How to report sexual abuse to the police?

Incidents of sexual abuse, assault, or violence, including rape, can be reported to the Police by calling 101. If it’s an emergency or you are in any danger as a result of the incident, call 999.

Alternatively, you can also visit your local Police station to file a report in person.

If you do not wish to file a sexual abuse report with the Police for now or you are not sure whether you should file a report, speak to our solicitor now who will discuss the matter with you in complete confidentiality.

What to do if i was sexually abused?

There is plenty of support available both online and offline for someone who has been sexually abused. However, we understand that the first step or approach to reach out for help and support may be different for everyone.

There are also organisations available to support victims of sexual abuse, such as SARC (Sexual Assault Referral Centre) and Rape Crisis, as well as solicitors specialising in sexual abuse who can help victims across multiple legal aspects.

Whether an incident of sexual abuse has occurred recently or in the past, it is always a good idea to speak to our experienced and friendly solicitor who can advise you on the appropriate legal action, and help you claim adequate compensation.