02/02/2026
Sexual Abuse and Sexual Violence Awareness Week is an important national campaign that takes place every year, falling this year from 2 to 8 February. This is a dedicated week to give survivors a voice and space to acknowledge their experiences, encourage conversation and highlight the support available to those in need.
Sexual violence is any unwanted (non-consensual) s*xual act or activity. There are different kinds of s*xual violence that exist, including but not restricted to:
R**e
Sexual assault
Child s*xual abuse
Sexual harassment
Coercion
Gaslighting
Female ge***al mutilation
Trafficking and s*xual exploitation
Forced marriage
These can take place in various contexts, including within relationships, workplaces and organised groups such as the church, schools or other activity groups. It disproportionately affects some groups, including women, children, LGBTQ+ individuals, and people with disabilities.
Sexual violence (including s*xual assault) is a criminal offence.
What are the signs of s*xual abuse and s*xual violence?
There are many physical and behavioural signs to look out for, these include:
cuts and bruises
unusual difficulty walking or sitting
irritation, pain or bleeding in the ge***al area
new substance or alcohol abuse
unexpected or increased use of explicit s*xual language
changes in behaviour and attitude towards s*x
seeming distant and listless
sleeping problems
refusing help with personal care.
reluctance to be alone with certain people.
self-harm
It is never too late to get support for s*xual abuse or s*xual violence.
If you are in immediate danger, call 999 and ask for the police.
If you don’t want to report to the police but would like to talk to someone, R**e Crisis’s team are available – at any time of the day or night.
Contact R**e Crisis’s 24/7 R**e and Sexual Abuse Support Line: 0808 500 2222
*xualassault *xualviolenceawareness
