FAQS - OUR IMPACT

When we imagine who commits crimes of sexual violence, we likely imagine a stranger. But 91% of sexual crimes are committed by a known individual. In almost 1 in 3 cases, that person is a family member. Just over 1 in 4 cases involve a current or ex-partner, boyfriend or husband. And in almost 1 in 3 cases, the perpetrator is a friend, colleague or neighbour. In 5% of cases, it’s a person in a position of trust: a teacher, doctor or babysitter.

It’s a common belief that crimes of sexual violence happen on the streets at night. But the truth is that most cases take place in the victim or survivor’s home.

You might have an image in your head of the type of person who uses our services. But in reality, there is no standard profile for users of sexual violence survivor services.

Some victims and survivors hear about us through a police officer, local authority, social worker, teacher or housing officer. But it’s much more common for victims and survivors to contact us themselves. And that might not happen as soon as you think. It takes the majority of adult survivors more than two years to report the crime they experienced.

We’re glad you asked. Through over 58,000 hours of service delivery, we helped 96% of survivors feel heard, understood and less isolated. We helped 97% feel happier and healthier and 95% regain control of their lives. This looks different for different people, but could mean returning to work or education, starting or resuming exercise and self-care regimes, and building self-esteem.