What is sexual assault?

There are different forms of sexual violence, all of which are serious criminal offences in the UK.

Sexual assault

is any intentional sexual touching or behaviour without consent. Under English law, this includes:​

  • Unwanted kissing or touching

  • Pressing against someone sexually

  • Forcing someone to touch another person sexually

Rape 

is when someone puts their penis into (penetrates) the vagina, anus or mouth of another person without their consent.

Assault by penetration

is when someone puts another part of their body – or an object – into another person’s vagina or anus without that person’s consent.

What is consent?

Consent means agreeing freely and voluntarily. It cannot be given if someone is asleep, unconscious, drunk, drugged, or coerced (pressured or tricked). 

If it isn’t your choice, you haven’t given consent.

Where can I get support?

If you or someone you know has experienced sexual assault, help is available. If you live in Bexley, you can access support from:

 
The Havens (Sexual Assault Referral Centre)
020 3299 6900 
Camberwell Haven, near to King’s College Hospital 


The Havens will see anyone in London who has been raped or sexually assaulted in the past 12 months: including adults of all genders, young people and children of all ages. Please note, children under 13 cannot come straight to the Havens, but must be referred. 

 

National Helplines

  • Rape Crisis: 0808 500 2222

  • Victim Support: 0808 168 9291

  • National Domestic Abuse Helpline: 0808 2000 247

  • Respect Phoneline (for male victims): 0808 801 0327

These services offer confidential support, whether or not you choose to report an assault to the police.​

How can I report it?

There are many ways to report rape or sexual assault in Bexley:

Report it to the police

By telephone
  • if you or someone is in immediate danger, call 999

If you are in danger and unable to talk on the phone, call 999, then press 55. This will transfer your call to the relevant police force who will assist you without having to speak.

  • in a non-emergency or to make a report over the phone, call 101
Online
  • report it online:

Report it to the police online

In-person

By visiting a Police station:

  • Bexleyheath Police station: 2 Arnsberg Way,BexleyheathDA7 4QS
  • alternatively, find your nearest police station:

Find your nearest police station

Report it to Crimestoppers

  • by calling 0800 555 111
  • by reporting it online anonymously:

[Information provided by the London Borough of Bexley website]