Consent & boundaries

Rape crisis centre

AlsoSARCrape crisis centersexual assault referral centreSARCrape crisissexual assault centresexual assault centerrape crisis line

Definition

A rape crisis centre is a specialist service offering free, confidential support to people affected by sexual violence, whenever it happened.

At a glance

  • A specialist service offering free, confidential support after sexual violence.
  • Support is available however long ago the assault happened.
  • Services usually include helplines, counselling and advocacy.
  • Many also support partners, family and friends.
  • You do not need to report to police to use a rape crisis centre.

In detail

Services typically include helplines, counselling, advocacy through medical and legal processes, and information about options. Many also support partners, family and friends. Sexual assault referral centres (SARCs) in some countries provide medical care and forensic examinations, often without requiring a police report.

Support is available whether the assault happened recently or many years ago. Local directories, sexual health clinics and emergency departments can point people to the nearest service.

In a sentence

  • Years later, she finally called a rape crisis centre and found the counselling really helped.
  • The rape crisis centre also offers support to partners and family members.

Where the word comes from

The first rape crisis centres opened in the United States in the early 1970s, set up by feminist activists, and similar services soon followed in the UK and elsewhere.

Common questions

Can I contact a rape crisis centre if it happened years ago?

Yes. Rape crisis centres support people whenever the sexual violence happened, whether last night or decades ago.

What is the difference between a rape crisis centre and a sexual assault referral centre?

Rape crisis centres usually offer emotional support, counselling and advocacy. Sexual assault referral centres (SARCs), found in some countries, provide medical care and forensic examinations, often without requiring a police report.

How do I find my nearest service?

Search local directories, or ask a sexual health clinic, doctor or emergency department to point you to the nearest rape crisis or sexual assault service.

Related terms

Sources

  1. Rape Crisis England & WalesRape Crisis England & Wales
  2. NHSHelp after rape and sexual assault