You may be frightened, ashamed, or worried, but you're certainly not alone.
Sexual assault can be anything from bum pinching and name calling to rape and coercion. The perpetrator often knows the victim; it could be a partner, colleague or friend, or it could be a stranger. Either way, it's never the victim's fault.
Advisors
You can find our trained advisor, Rebekah, on the first floor of the Union. Ask at reception if you don't know where to find them. They are available to listen, and provide you with advice on where to go next.
There are many places and people you can turn to for help. For a start, you're welcome to talk to Hannah, the welfare officer, or Sylvia, the women's officer, confidentially, either about what happened, how you feel, or what you want to do now (or if you just need somewhere quiet and safe to be on campus). Thye can put you in touch with relevant people if you need further help, or wish to take further action.
St Mary's provides for anyone in the Greater Manchester area who has been raped or sexually assaulted, recently or in the past. They offer emotional support such as counselling and support through criminal proceedings, testing for STIs, and medical examinations. The centre provides support for children, and both men and women. They will not contact the police without your consent.
St Mary's Centre
You can call them on 0161 276 6515
If you report a crime to the police you will automatically be offered the services of St Mary's Centre
Help and support:
The most important thing is to believe them, and not blame them. Our society often puts blame on people for assaults happening to them based on their personality, their dress, their behaviour and intoxication. No one is ever to blame but the perpetrator, so make sure your friend knows that. If someone doesn't want to go to the police that's their choice, but being checked for STIs is really important, and seeking counselling may be helpful.