Rape and sexual assault

Rape and sexual assault are acts of sexual violence. Both are against the law and can result in prosecution in a court of law.

Reporting a rape or sexual assault

If you have been raped or sexually assaulted, you can report the crime to the police at any time, either immediately after the incident or at a later date.

If you choose not to report the crime, you can still get help and advice from Victim Support Scotland. Trained volunteers can visit you at home, or you can talk to someone confidentially by calling the Victim Support help line on 0845 30 30 900, or the Scottish Helpline on 0845 603 9213.

Medical advice

Even if you do not wish to report the sexual offence to the police, you should still seek medical attention for advice on emergency contraception and sexually transmitted infections (STIs). You can:

• Talk to your GP.
• Go to a sexual health clinic (GUM clinic).
• Call NHS 24 on 08454 24 24 to speak to someone in complete confidence.