How to help a friend who's been raped

If you've been approached by a friend for help after rape, you may feel worried about how best to support them.

Alisha Thomas, an ISVA (independent sexual violence advisor) Team Leader at Victim Support, talks through some of the most important things to bear in mind if you're supporting an adult friend after rape. There's no 'right' reaction to rape, so it's important that you don't make assumptions about how your friend should behave or feel.

If you or your friend needs to speak to someone, we're available every day, night and day. Our Supportline is free on 08 08 16 89 111. We don’t just help people who’ve recently been sexually assaulted or raped — we’re here to support both men and women weeks, months and years after the crime took place.

All of our services are confidential, free and available to anyone who’s experienced sexual assault or rape. We can provide emotional and practical support, regardless of whether your friend has told the police or anyone else about the assault.

If your friend is under the age of 16, the rape should be reported to the police and to children’s safeguarding.

Find out more about how we can help after rape or sexual assault here: victimsupport.org.uk/crime-info/types-crime/rap…