Unwanted sexual attention
This is any sexual attention that makes you feel uncomfortable or intimidated and can often result in victims experiencing health problems
- What is it?
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Unwanted sexual attention covers a huge range of behaviours from being touched without permission, causing fear, alarm or distress; sexual name calling or harassment to rape and sexual assault.
Unwanted sexual attention can happen to both women and men and happen between people of the same and opposite sex.
- How can I protect myself?
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If you are receiving unwanted sexual attention, take action to try to protect yourself by:
- talking to someone you trust
- if possible avoid being alone with the individual
- think about your personal safety e.g. not walking home alone after a night out and staying alert to your surroundings
- if you are being hurt or have been hurt, talk to someone who can help you
Remember people do not have a right to hurt you and you to have the right to be protected from harm.
Sexual violence, including rape, is massively under reported to the police. Many victims of rape say they don't report it because they don't think people will believe them. Rape and sexual assault are serious crimes and there are local services that will take you seriously, listen to you, advise and support you.
- Where can I get help?
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Police
- Phone 999 for emergencies
- Phone 101 for non-emergencies
Contact Hampshire & Isle of Wight if you've been raped or sexually assaulted. If you're ready to, they're here for you, you can report rape and sexual assault online.
Hampshire and Isle of Wight Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC)
SARC is available to anyone, male or female, over the age of 13 who has been a victim of rape or serious sexual assault in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight.
Phone: 0300 123 6616
Phone: 0800 800 5000 (24 hour helpline)
Free, confidential and open 24 hours a day.
Phone: 0800 1111 (24 hour helpline)
Providing non-judgemental and confidential emotional support to those experiencing feelings of distress or despair – helpline is available 24-7 365 days a year.
Phone: 0845 790 9090
Hampshire County Council Children's Services
Phone: 0300 555 1384
A national agency that co-ordinates a range of counselling, therapeutic and support services for women, men and children who are victims/survivors of rape, sexual violence or childhood sexual abuse
- Spotting the signs of sexual exploitation
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The Barnardo's website has a video and a set of leaflets for young people, parents and professionals to help them spot the signs of sexual exploitation.