You deserve support after sexual violence
Content warning: This article contains information about sexual violence and assault, which some readers may find distressing. Please take care when reading and seek support if needed.
During sexual abuse and sexual violence awareness week, we are raising awareness of the support available for anyone affected by sexual violence or abuse and reminding people that help is available, whatever your situation and whenever you are ready.
Sexual violence can happen to anyone. It affects people of all ages, genders and backgrounds, and often leaves individuals feeling frightened, confused, isolated or unsure where to turn. Many people never tell anyone about what has happened to them or worry that they won't be believed.
If you have experienced sexual violence or abuse, you are not alone and you deserve support.
What is Serenity SARC?
Serenity is a Sexual Assault Referral Centre(SARC) based in Northamptonshire, providing specialist, confidential support to anyone who has experienced sexual violence or abuse.
Serenity offers a safe space where you can access healthcare, emotional support and information about your options. You do not need to report to the police to use the service, and there is no pressure to make decisions before you feel ready.
From the moment you make contact, the Serenity team will support you at your pace, ensuring you feel safe, respected and in control.
Who can access Serenity?
Serenity is for everyone.
The service is available to people of all genders, sexual orientations, ages, ethnicities and cultural backgrounds. We know that some people feel uncertain about accessing support, particularly men, LGBTQIA+ people, or those who may not see themselves reflected in other support services, but Serenity is here for anyone who needs help.
You can contact Serenity whether your experience was recent or happened in the past, no matter how long ago it was.
Support for children and young people
Serenity also provides specialist support for children and young people under the age of 18 across the East Midlands who have experienced rape or sexual assault.
This includes:
- Access to an initial specialist medical examination
- Follow up healthcare
- Therapeutic support pathways
- Emotional and practical support from Child Independent Sexual Violence Advisors (CISVAs)
Support for children and young people is coordinated through the East Midlands Children and Young People's Sexual Assault Service (EMCYPSAS) single point of access:
Call: 0800 183 0023 - available 24 hours a day, for professionals and for victims or families seeking support.
What support does Serenity offer?
Serenity provides practical, emotional and medical support tailored to your needs. Services include:
- Support in a way that works for you - you can receive support by phone, email, text, virtual appointment or face to face at Serenity or another place where you feel safe and comfortable
- Specialist doctors can assess your health needs after an assault. If you choose, forensic evidence can be collected for a police investigation. If you're not ready to report, evidence can be stored securely for up to two years in case you decide to do so later
- ISVA support - ISVAs are specially trained professionals who provide continuous emotional and practical support following sexual violence.
An ISVA can:
o Listen without judgement and help you make sense of your options
o Support you whether you choose to report to the police or not
o Help you understand the police and court process if you decide to report
o Act as a consistent point of contact so you don't have to repeat your story
o Support you with safety planning and access to other services
o Be alongside you for as long as you need support
o ISVA support is independent, confidential and centred around your choices.
- Emergency contraception can be provided within clinically appropriate timeframes, and pregnancy testing is available if needed.
- Advice and screening for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) - If needed, medication can reduce the risk of some infections. The team will assess your situation and refer you to sexual health services for follow up care.
- If you decide to report the assault to police, Serenity can support you and work alongside the police. Your consent is always required, and information will never be shared without it.
- Support for partners, family and friends because sexual violence doesn't just affect one person. Serenity also offers guidance and support for loved ones who may be struggling.
What happens when you visit Serenity?
Your first visit is centred around your choices.
You'll be welcomed into a calm, private environment where the team will talk you through your options and answer any questions you have. You can take things at your own pace, and nothing will happen without your consent.
We're here when you're ready
During sexual abuse and sexual violence awareness week, and every week, Serenity is here to support you.
You don't need to decide everything at once. Reaching out for information or support does not mean you are committing to any particular next step.
If you or someone you know needs support, you can contact Serenity at any time:
Serenity 24 hour helpline: 01604 601713
Office number: 0300 027 0040
You deserve care, compassion and choice and Serenity is here to help.