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What is rape?

Rape is when someone forces another person to have sex against their will. Although most victims are women, there are also many cases where men are the victims. Sexual assault covers any sort of sexual contact and behaviour that is unwanted.

Often, rapes are committed by someone who the victim knows. That includes members of their family or someone that they know socially. You can also be raped or sexually assaulted by someone who you're in a relationship with or someone you've never met before.

It's a crime that doesn't just affect adults. Teenagers and young people can also be victims. When a victim is under 18, rape can often be referred to as child abuse.

Drug and date rape

Some cases of rape happen when someone is given drugs without their knowledge so that they become confused and unaware about what is happening to them.

Drugs can be added to a drink or some food quite easily without the victim noticing, meaning that it's been 'spiked'. The drugs used can cause memory loss, so the victim cannot remember exactly what happened.

To stay safe when you're out, never accept a drink from someone you've never met before. Always take your drink with you if you're going to the toilet or to make a telephone call; never leave it unattended.

The Roofie Foundation is the only organisation in the country that specialises in helping victims of drug-assisted rape and sexual assault. They operate a 24 hour helpline and provide safety tips about how to keep safe.

• The Roofie foundation Opens new window
• More information about drug-assisted rape Opens new window

What to do if you've been sexually assaulted

If you have been raped or sexually assaulted, you should report it to the police as soon as possible. If you're under 17, the Child Protection Unit of your local police will deal with your case.

You can ask to speak to an officer that's the same sex as you if it makes you feel more comfortable. They will be experienced in dealing with victims of sexual assaults and will understand the distress and fear you may be feeling.

You may be asked to give the police the items of clothing you were wearing when you were attacked because they may contain traces of evidence that can identify the person who attacked you.

The police will also arrange for you to have a medical examination if you want to. The doctor will treat any injuries you have and also gather any evidence that may help the police with their investigation. The doctor will talk to you about the examination beforehand, so you understand what they're doing and why they're doing it.

The police may want to talk to you again as they investigate the crime. They will keep you updated with any developments in the investigation and let you know if you need to go to court.

Help for victims

Being a victim of rape or sexual assault can leave you with feelings of fear, confusion and distress. If you've reported the crime or not, Victim Support will be help you understand the emotions that you may be going through.

You may also find it useful to talk to an organisation that specialises in helping rape and sexual assault victims. There are organisations who are dedicated to helping certain groups of victims - for example, male rape victims.

• Advice from Victim Support for victims of rape Opens new window
• Help and support for female rape victims Opens new window
• Help and advice for male victims of sexual assault Opens new window