If you are in danger and unable to talk on the phone, call 999 and then press 55. This will transfer your call to the relevant police force, who will assist you without you having to speak. Regardless of whether you feel hurt or not, you should seek medical attention and call emergency services.
To preserve any evidence you should contact the police immediately. It is crucial to seek help as soon as possible, as you can be at risk of an STI (sexually transmitted infection) or pregnancy. Do not try not to clean yourself in any way, or wash any clothes you wore from the incident. This is vital for forensic evidence if you have decided to report the incident to the police.
When you report the incident, make sure you tell the police any details you have about the person such as:
- Age
- Gender
- Height
- Build
- Skin colour
- Hair colour and style
- Clothing
- Distinguishing features (tattoos, scars, etc)
- Accent
- Details of the car they are driving
- Their number plate
If you have it, include information about where they live or work, online nicknames, or personas.
If you are under 16 and in a safe environment, you can always speak to an adult you trust or a teacher at school, and tell them what has happened before contacting the police.
Sources of help and advice:
If you are under 18:
NSPCC helpline – 0808 800 5000 or visit nspcc.org.uk.
Childline – 0800 1111 or visit www.childline.org.uk
Sexual assault referral centre (SARC):
Rape Crisis – www.rapecrisis.org.uk or dial 0808 802 9999
Victim Support – (victimsupport.org.uk/live-chat)
For sexual abuse support for men:
Mankind – www.mkcharity.org
Survivors UK – www.survivorsuk.org or dial 020 3322 1860
National Male Survivor Helpline – (www.safeline.org)