Stalking and harassment
If you’re being harassed in any way, try to save emails, text messages, social media posts, letters, voicemails and any other evidence of the person’s actions. Help is out there to end stalking and harassment and this evidence can be incredibly useful. Learn more about what to do about harassing phone calls, and how to deal with a stalker.
Cyberbullying
If you or someone you know is being cyberbullied, much of the same advice applies. Save screenshots, messages or any other evidence of what’s taking place. You can also take advantage of privacy settings and blocking tools to defend yourself. Try to talk to someone you trust about what’s happening, whether it’s a friend, family member, teacher, counsellor or mental health professional. Read more about the best way to help someone being cyberbullied.
Rape & sexual assault
In recent years the conversation around consent has grown. It’s important to understand that consent means much more than just saying yes or no. Read up on UK consent laws and the age of consent to understand more about it. You can also learn more about sexual assault on public transport and the details of the Sexual Offences Act 2003.
Realising you have been raped is a horrible thing to go through. It’s a personal decision whether you talk to someone about it or report it to the police, but opening up can help. The most important thing is to understand that it is never your fault, under any circumstances. Remember you can always talk to The Mix anonymously and you don’t have to mention anything you’re not ready to. Read more about drink spiking and a true story about taking a rapist to court.
Useful resources
Struggling with intimacy after rape
How do I get him to stop sharing photos of me?
Being a victim of crime: trauma and recovery
UK Emergency and non-emergency numbers
What is phishing? How to protect your personal information online
Financial abuse & controlling behaviour
I was sexually assaulted: How to get help
How to support someone who has been sexually assaulted
How can I support a victim of child sexual abuse?
Fighting back against revenge porn
Support for victims of crime
Even something less extreme like a burglary or a non-violent mugging can leave you feeling violated and vulnerable. Especially if your phone gets nicked and you’ve got your whole life on there. That’s why it’s helpful to know what to do if your phone’s been stolen. You can also learn more about victim support and how to avoid online scams such as phishing.
If you need to talk to someone, you can always use our 24 hour crisis messenger service or speak to our team on our daily helpline.
Help and support for rape or sexual assault
In the UK, Sexual Assault Referral Centres (SARC) provide a range of immediate and long-term support options to victims of rape and sexual assault. We visited one centre in Swindon to find out what happens when you go there.
