Criminal violence and rape

The following script provides support for people having to cope with criminal violence or rape. The phonelines to some of these organisations are very busy, but please keep trying.

Victim Supportline provides help and information for anyone who has been affected by a crime, including violence or sexual assault. It doesn't matter when the crime took place or what type of crime it was. You might not care to involve the police but want someone to listen to how you feel. If you do want to go to the police, Victim Supportline can help you with this and accompany you at court if you require support. Call them on 0845 30 30 900 (Mondays to Fridays 9am-9pm or Saturdays and Sundays 9am-7pm). You can also e-mail them on info@victimsupport.org.uk. Or visit their website at www.victimsupport.org.

If you want to report a crime, call Crimestoppers free on 0800 555 111. Crimes can be reported in confidence and calls are not traced.

If you are a woman who has been raped or sexually assaulted, you can contact the Rape Crisis Federation on 0115 900 3560 (Mondays to Fridays 9.30am-4.30pm). They can put you in touch with your nearest Rape Crisis Centre for help. They also offer advice and information for anyone who has been raped or sexually abused, their families, friends and partners. Visit their website at www.rapecrisis.co.uk.

If you are a man who has been sexually abused or who is trying to cope with the abuse of someone close to you, Survivors UK runs a helpline on 020 7613 0808 (Monday and Tuesday evenings 7pm-10pm). You can e-mail them at survivorsuk@hotmail.com or check out their website at www.survivorsuk.co.uk.

If you are ready to speak to the police after a rape or sexual assault, this information may be useful to you:

• Try to report the attack as soon as you can. Try not to wash or change your clothes.
• If possible, take a change of clothing with you. The police may need your clothing for evidence.
• Avoid taking any drugs or alcohol prior to reporting the assault to the police.
• Once you have reported the attack, a specially trained police officer will be appointed to help you. They will advise and support you through procedures at the police station and at Court.

Police training and practice has improved dramatically over the past few years. You can now expect to be taken seriously, to be treated sensitively and with respect, and also kept informed of progress.

Visit the Channel 4 Health House at www.channel4.com/health. You can ask confidential questions online in the Just Ask section at www.channel4.com/health/sex.

This message has been prepared and is updated regularly by Programme Support at Channel 4.