Sexual violence and abuse

The Sexual Offences Act (2003), which came into force in May 2004, clarified the law on consent by providing a legal definition- “agreement by choice and having the freedom and capacity to make that choice”. In addition to this, the Act strengthened the law on sentencing and created new offences to help protect adults against ‘date rape’ drugs and children from sexual exploitation, including through online and offline grooming. It also ended discrimination by ensuring sexual offences apply equally to males and females of any sexual orientation.

Services for victims of sexual violence and abuse

For 2010/11, the Government Equalities Office in partnership with the Office for Criminal Justice Reform has administered a single fund for voluntary and community sector organisations to provide support to victims of sexual violence and abuse. This combined fund, a total of £2.25 million for 2010/11, was aimed at front-line services at risk of reduction or closure.

Independent Sexual Violence Advisors

Linked to this process, the Home Office provided funding of £860,000 for Independent Sexual Violence Advisors (ISVAs) for 2010/11.

HELP & SUPPORT

Victim Support: 0845 30 30 900

Rape is one of the most devastating offences for victims. It violates the basic right of women, men and children to be treated with dignity and respect. Victims should get the support and services they need in the aftermath of rape or sexual assault in order to rebuild their lives.

In addition to changes in the legal system, work is underway to look at how the police and Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) work, with a view to putting the victims’ needs first, looking at howcases get to trial and convictions are secured. Specially trained officers and specialist rape prosecutors have been introduced in every CPS area, as well as improved training and guidance for the police, the CPS and barristers.