Sexual violence
There is help available if you have, or someone you know has, experienced sexual harassment, assault or violence.
No matter where you were or what you were doing, wearing or saying, whether you were drunk or under the influence of drugs – you are not to blame.
If there is no immediate threat, the most important thing is to talk to someone you trust. This could be a friend, family member, colleague or manager, Campus Safety or anyone else you feel comfortable sharing with.
The University of York is committed to preventing, responding to, and investigating incidents of sexual violence. Find out more about how we're tackling sexual violence.
Deciding what to do next
There is a lot of support available both on campus and off:
Campus Safety - they'll contact a trained staff member:
01904 32 3333 (or 3333 from a University extension) or use the SafeZone app.
Bridge House: Sexual Assault Referral Centre
Bridge House is York’s Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC). They offer free and confidential support and information. If something happened in the last seven days, Bridge House can collect and store medical evidence, even if you are not sure you want to involve the police at the moment.
0330 223 0362 (9am-5pm) 24-hour answer phone
Out of hours helpline: 0330 223 0099
IDAS
IDAS support people who have experienced sexual violence or domestic violence.
Their Independent Sexual Violence Advisor (ISVA) service offers practical and emotional support to anyone who has experienced sexual violence or abuse whether this is historic or current. IDAS can support people through the Criminal Justice System, but offer support whether or not you choose to report to the Police. Call 03000 110 110 or visit idas.org.uk.
Survive
Survive offer support for survivors of rape and sexual abuse in York and North Yorkshire. Support can be offered through ongoing counselling, a one-off 1:1 meeting, support groups, or through the helpline.
Helpline: 01904 642830 (Wednesdays 1pm to 3.30pm)
Office: 01904 638813
York Sexual Health Centre
There are emergency appointments available for people who have been the victim of sexual assault. Emergency contraception is only effective if taken within five days of an incident. York Sexual Health Centre offers a free and confidential counselling service. You can be referred by a member of the York Sexual Health staff, self-refer online or you can call them on 01904 721111.
Rape Crisis (England and Wales)
National organisation offering advice and support. The nearest centre is in Leeds:
Support After Rape and Sexual Violence (Leeds)
Your doctor
Your doctor can offer you medical advice and guidance.
Reporting sexual violence
Your options in reporting sexual violence:
You can report an incident to the police at any time.
If you are fearful for your safety, call 999 and get to a safe place.
If you are not in immediate danger use the non-emergency number 101.
North Yorkshire Police treat all reports of rape and sexual assault seriously. Victims will be treated with dignity and respect throughout the process.
Visit the North Yorkshire Police rape and sexual assault web page for more information.
You may decide that you do not want to report to the police. If so, you can still access support both from the University and outside of the University in the ways outlined above. The support is free and will not pressure you to report the sexual assault.
Reporting an assault or abuse from weeks, months or years ago
The services outlined are relevant no matter when the assault or abuse took place. All disclosures will be treated seriously.