Get support

Abuse can happen to anyone. It's important to know it’s never your fault. And you're not alone. Free, confidential and independent support is available, whatever your situation.

Trying to cope with things alone can be difficult but talking to someone can be the first step towards feeling safer and more supported. Help is here when you're ready. 

If you're in immediate danger, call 999. If it’s not safe to speak, you can then press 55 and you’ll be transferred to a police call handler trained to deal with ‘silent calls’.

Choose the support that feels right for you. Click on the topics below to explore support organisations that specialise in different areas and can offer help and guidance. Some organisations are available 24/7 if you need support at any time. 

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Specialist support organisations

If you have experienced abuse, regardless of when it happened, specialist support organisations are there for you. They can offer a range of support, including talking things through, explaining your options and helping you access other services if you choose. They can listen, offer guidance and help you find the support that feels right for you.

You may also be able to access specialist support, such as from an Independent Domestic Violence Adviser (IDVA), an Independent Sexual Violence Adviser (ISVA) or an Independent Stalking Advocate (ISA). They can help you understand your options, including reporting, and support you at your own pace – whether or not you decide to go to the police.

Sexual Assault Referral Centres (SARCs)

Sexual assault referral centres (SARCs) offer medical, practical and emotional support 24/7 to anyone who has been raped, sexually assaulted or abused. SARCs are located across the country and are here for everyone, regardless of when an incident happened. You can get help from a SARC regardless of whether you report to the police or not.

Find your local centre

Child sexual abuse

If you are concerned about ongoing or recent child sex abuse, you can find information and support on the  National Association for People Abused in Childhood website.

If you suffered abuse when you were a child, it’s never too late to get support. Visit the National Association for People Abused in Childhood website.

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Reporting abuse

If you or someone you know has been affected by abuse, there are ways to report it. Find out more about how to report abuse.

Reporting abuse

Your rights as a victim of crime

Whoever you are and whatever the crime, you have rights under the Victims’ Code. This includes the right to be informed about the criminal justice process if you report the crime and that there’s support available even if you don’t.