The Crime Survey for England and Wales (CSEW) estimated that 20% of women and 4% of men have experienced some type of sexual assault since the age of 16, equivalent to an estimated 3.4 million female victims and 631,000 male victims.

And according to the year ending March 2017, the CSEW estimated that 3.1% of women (510,000) and 0.8% of men (138,000) aged 16 to 59 experienced sexual assault in the last year, which was no significant change from the previous year.

The CSEW showed that around 5 in 6 victims do not report their experiences to the police, however, there has been an increase in sexual offences recorded by the police which is thought to be driven by improvements in recording practices and a greater willingness of victims to come forward to report such crimes, including victims of historical abuse.

This week is Sexual Abuse and Sexual Violence Awareness Week. The hashtag #ITSNOTOKAY was created to raise awareness and help tackle the stigma that discourages people from openly discussing sexual assault and abuse.

Sadly, cases of sexual abuse and sexual violence are extremely common, and it is important to know that you are not alone. It is important to speak out and report the crime committed against you.

The CSEW estimated that 12.1% of adults aged 16 to 59 have experienced sexual assault, including attempts, since the age of 16, which is equivalent to an estimated 4 million victims.

At Watson Woodhouse, we offer free and confidential advice to those who have or are experiencing sexual abuse. It’s likely that you will have a lot of questions and may need more information before you can decide what to do. We can advise and represent you in obtaining protective court orders in respect of you, your home and your children, whether your case has been reported to the police or not.

We also have close links with ARCH North East. A sexual violence service offering support to people in the Teesside area who have experienced rape and sexual abuse, at any point in their lives.

If you would like to speak to a member of our family team, contact Natalie Blake on 01642 247 656.