SAY NO TO RAPE

* Rape is forcing someone to have sex, without theirconsent. It is terrible, terrifying and devastating for
the survivor. It is the crime many people fear the
most.
The myths about rape:
Women ask for it when they go out in short skirts/
tight tops. They make it happen.
Men can't help themselves. They get so fired up,
it's natural.
Girls say no when they mean yes. It's part of the
game.
You can't be raped by your boyfriend. It's your
duty to sleep with him.
The facts about rape:
1 in 5 women in England and Wales has been the
victim of a sexual offence or attempted offence
It's not just girls. Between 2009-10 and 2011-12
there were an estimated 78,000 victims of rape
per year in England and Wales - 69,000 females
and around 9,000 males.
Around 90% of victims of the most serious sexual
offences in the previous year knew the
perpetrator.
Only 15% of rapes are reported to the police.
Ways to stay safe:
Rape is never the victim's fault, and is most often
comitted by somebody that the victim knows.
However when you're out and about there are some
general safety tips which could help you stay aware
of your surroundings.
Avoiding getting your drink "spiked". Keep an eye
on your drink when you're out and where possible
try not to leave your drink unattended.
Where possible try and make sure that, when
you're out, someone you trust knows where you
are.
Trust your instincts. If you feel uneasy - get out.
No apologies, no backwards glances.
If you've been raped:
You've been through a terrible ordeal so thinking
straight might be impossible. But you really must
consider reporting your rape. This is for your own
safety and well-being and that of others.
Being silent only helps your attacker. Telling
someone means you can get the physical checks
and support you need.
First, tell a trusted friend and preferably an adult.
Then either call the police and visit your GP or local
sexual health centre ASAP. They will advise what to
do and won't tell anyone (including the police)
unless you say so.
The sooner you are checked over after a rape, the
quicker you can be sure you're physically OK, and
the more likely the police are to find the forensic
evidence they need to secure a conviction.
There are many experts who can help you make
sense of what happened and look after you while
you do. You may never forget being raped, but you
can move on. Be strong. You'll come through this.
One step at a time.