People are being reminded that sexual abuse and sexual violence is not OK as part of an awareness week designed to promote dialogue and signpost the support that is available to victims.
Sexual Abuse and Sexual Violence Awareness Week, which began yesterday (Monday 3 February), is the UK’s national week to raise awareness of these crimes and, using the hashtag #ItsNotOK, encourages people to raise awareness and help get more coverage of this important subject.
Councillor Jasbir Jaspal, the City of Wolverhampton Council’s Cabinet Member for Adults and Wellbeing, said: “It’s Not OK to have to deal with sexual abuse or sexual violence. It’s Not OK to suffer in silence. And It’s Not OK to have to deal with it on your own.
“This Sexual Abuse and Sexual Violence Awareness Week, we want victims to understand that no matter what happened, you deserve support – it wasn’t your fault, we’ll listen to you, and we’ll believe you.”
Rape Crisis England and Wales runs a 24/7 Rape and Sexual Abuse Support Line providing specialist support to anyone aged 16 and over who has experienced something sexual that they didn’t want, didn’t consent to or is feeling confused about, no matter when or where it happened. Call 0808 500 2222 or visit 24/7 Rape and Sexual Abuse Support Line.
There are a wide range of services in the West Midlands which offer guidance and support to anyone who has experienced rape, sexual violence and childhood sexual abuse including The Haven Wolverhampton, Black Country Women’s Aid and a number of other organisations (details at Support after rape and sexual assault).
And the West Midlands Police and Crime Commissioner’s No Excuse For Abuse website includes details of a range of support services including charities, refuges and specialist support for LGBTQ+ and male victims.
People can report sexual abuse or violence to West Midlands Police by calling 101 for non-emergencies or via Live Chat online. Dial 999 if a sexual assault has just taken place or someone is in immediate danger.
Sexual Abuse and Sexual Violence Awareness Week runs until Sunday (9 February, 2025). For more information, visit Sexual Abuse and Sexual Violence Awareness Week.