If you think someone is suffering from sexual harm, call 0300 300 1199 now.
For non-emergencies, refer yourself or someone you know to the Adult Services Team using our online form.
Sexual harm
Sexual harm can happen to older people, to people with learning disabilities and to people with physical disabilities.
People can find it difficult to accept that an adult at risk has been sexually harmed. This is because the person responsible can be a family member or someone they know and trust.
Sexual harm is a crime and should always be treated as a crime.
The first step to recognising that an adult at risk has been sexually harmed is to recognise that such a thing is possible and does happen.
Often a person's behaviour, even if they have dementia or a significant learning disability, can indicate that something is wrong. Here are some of the physical signs to watch out for:
- Bruises around the breasts or genital area
- Unexplained venereal disease or genital infections
- Unexplained vaginal or anal bleeding
- Difficulty in walking or standing
- Marked changes in behaviour
- Torn, stained, or bloody underclothing
- A person telling you they have been sexually assaulted or raped
Neglect
