Guidance

Guides for victims of rape and sexual assault

A series of guides to help people understand the process of reporting a rape or sexual assault, what might happen after and what support is available.

Applies to England and Wales

Documents

Reporting a rape or sexual assault

Going to court

Going to court (large print version)

After court

After court (large print version)

Glossary of terms

Details

There are 5 guides:

  1. Support following a rape or sexual assault – information about the different types of support immediately available to you, whether you choose to report it or not
  2. Reporting a rape or sexual assault – details about what you can expect when reporting a rape or sexual assault
  3. Investigating a rape or sexual assault – information on how the police and Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) investigate a crime
  4. Going to court – what you can expect at trial, including special measures available to support you in giving evidence
  5. After the trial – what might happen after a trial including the different outcomes

British Sign Language translations

Support following a rape or sexual assault

How to Access Support Following a Rape or Sexual Assault - BSL Translation

Reporting a rape or sexual assault

How to Report a Rape or Sexual Assault - BSL Translation

Investigating a rape or sexual assault

Understanding How a Rape or Sexual Assault is Investigated - BSL Translation

Going to court

Going to Court and Giving Evidence - BSL Translation

After the trial

What Happens After a Trial for Rape or Sexual Assault - BSL Translation

Glossary of terms

Guidance for Victims of Rape or Sexual Assault - Glossary of Terms and Definitions - BSL Translation

Published 15 December 2022
Last updated 16 August 2023 + show all updates
  1. Welsh translation added.

  2. First published.