Sexual Assault & Abuse Service

Adults, children over four, close family members or significant others who have experienced sexual assault or abuse at any time in their lives can utilise the free, nonjudgmental, and private services offered by Staffordshire Survive throughout Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent.

We take pride in working with Savana and Staffordshire Women’s Aid to provide the Survive Service.

What is sexual assault or abuse?

Sexual assault or abuse is any unwanted sexual behavior or activity that occurs without consent, using force, threats, manipulation, or coercion. It is a serious violation of a person’s rights and can leave lasting physical and emotional scars. Sexual abuse is not limited to specific groups or places; it can happen to anyone regardless of their age, gender, or background.

Sexual assault or abuse can take many forms, these include; unwanted Touching, rape, sexual harassment, forcing sexual acts, child sexual abuse, sexual exploitation, trafficking, forced marriage and female genital mutilation.

Sexual assault or abuse can be committed by anyone, regardless of their gender, age, relationship, or social standing, including acquaintances, family members, intimate partners, friends, authority figures, or strangers.

This service includes:

Independent Sexual Violence Advisors (ISVAs) and Children’s Independent Sexual Violence Advisors (CHISVAs)

Providing emotional support, practical advice, and guidance, including assistance with navigating the criminal justice system for those who have reported to the police.

These advisors can:

Help you feel confident in making decisions that are right for you
Offer support by attending appointments and court hearings with you, if desired
Ensure your voice is heard

You can access ISVA/CHISVA services even if you have not reported the incident to the police.

Support for Partners and Family Members

This service offers both practical and emotional support to individuals affected by the sexual abuse of a close family member or significant other. It aims to address the needs of victims and their families by providing accurate information on criminal justice procedures, victims’ rights, and referrals to relevant agencies as needed.

Counselling

For adults and children older than four who have been sexually abused or assaulted at any time in their life, our team of licensed counselors offers therapeutic counseling. Through counseling, you may express your emotions and acknowledge your experiences in a secure setting.

All of Staffordshire Survive’s counselors hold diplomas or higher and are regularly clinically supervised to guarantee that they operate safely and to the highest standards.

For adult clients upon request, we can provide a counsellor from the LGBTQIA+ community.