Helplines and Support for Parents

The Office for National Statistics’ Crime Survey of England and Wales found in 2016 that 7% of adults aged 16-59 had experienced sexual assault or rape when they were a child. It established that just under three quarters of these victims (74%) did not report this at the time. Due to the subject matter of our parent and teacher presentations we often find that this can bring to the surface memories of traumatic events that happened many years ago. This page is designed to assist anyone that has experienced sexual assault or rape in getting help and support.

Important note

Please note these helplines are for people with historic experiences of sexual assault or rape, not for current cases. If you believe a child is in immediate danger, call the police on 999. If you suspect abuse but a child hasn’t actually disclosed to you, we recommend that you follow this guidance provided by the NSPCC and report your worries to their helpline on 0808 800 5000, where you can remain anonymous.

If you are a practitioner working with young people please refer to your own organisation’s child protection procedure, or if in doubt refer to the government guidelines on what to do if you suspect a child may be being abused.

To report non-recent child abuse to the Police

Operation Hydrant is the police initiative set up in 2014 to coordinate investigations into allegations of non-recent child sexual abuse. This factsheet from Operation Hydrant gives some basic information on reporting historic abuse to the police and what is involved.

To report non-recent child abuse to the Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse

The Truth Project was set up for victims and survivors of child sexual abuse to share their experiences in a supportive and confidential setting. It’s part of the Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse (IICSA) which was set up in 2015 to investigate organisations and institutions that have failed to protect children from sexual abuse.

HAVOCA – Help for Adult Victims Of Child Abuse
HAVOCA is run by survivors for adult survivors of child abuse. They provide support, friendship and advice for any adult who’s life has been affected by childhood abuse. Their website includes information on finding professional help, a survivors forum and details on survivors support groups near you.
National Association for People Abused in Childhood (NAPAC)
NAPAC (the National Association for People Abused in Childhood) offers support to adult survivors of all types of childhood abuse, including physical, sexual, emotional abuse or neglect. Their website also contains free online resources and information on legal advice, support groups and much more.
One in Four
One in Four specializes in supporting survivors of sexual violence and abuse, and particularly survivors of child sexual abuse and trauma. They can assist in helping survivors access long-term, low cost Counselling for men and women over 18 years,  psychoeducation groups and workshops plus advocacy and help with reporting abuse.
Rape Crisis
Rape Crisis offer help if you’ve experienced rape, child sexual abuse or any kind of sexual violence. They can provide details of local Rape Crisis services.
Samaritans
Whatever you are going through you can always speak to someone at Samaritans. As a non-religious organisation offer a safe place for you to talk any time you like, in your own way – about whatever’s getting to you. Call them on 116 123.24 hours a day free of charge. Alternatively you can visit your local Samaritans branch.
Survivors UK
Survivors UK is a charity for specifically for Male survivors of rape and sexual abuse. They can offer a range of support services including counselling and therapy appointments as well as online chat. All services are provided by trained professionals who as specialists in the field of male sexual violence have helped many men to work through their experiences.
Victim Support
Victim Support is a UK charity which delivers tailored support to help people recover from the effects of crime and traumatic events. They can provide emotional and practical help. They also have resources for children & young people that have been victims, as well as their parents and teachers.
Rehab for Addiction

Rehab for Addiction aids individuals affected by substance misuse and their loved ones, providing a wide array of services to guide you towards the most effective treatments. They support with alcohol rehab, drug rehab, detox services, intervention, aftercare, and outpatient counseling, all facilitated by various reputable UK Private Addiction Rehab or NHS/Council-Funded providers.