Helplines in Northern Ireland.

Are you a victim of sexual abuse, assault or harassment? Get free, confidential support from a hotline in Northern Ireland

Sexual abuse is when one person forces another person into sexual behavior, without that person's consent. It is a type of sexual violence, which is any sexual activity without consent. This includes sexual assault (such as unwanted touching or rape) and sexual harassment (unwelcome or offensive sexual behavior).

If you’ve experienced sexual abuse, assault or harassment, you might be experiencing intense rage and fear, or you may feel numb. There are 4 hotlines in Northern Ireland who support the victims of sexual violence. Consider getting some support if you recognize any of the following:

Examples of sexual violence:

• Being spoken to in a sexual way that you find offensive or degrading
• Repeated unwanted sexual attention or advances, including in your workplace or by your employer
• Being used sexually while you were very drunk, drugged, unconscious, or unable to say NO
• Sexual photos or videos being posted online without your consent
• Being forced or coerced to have sex without protection from sexually transmitted diseases
• Sexual abuse or assault from someone in your family (incest)
• Being coerced, threatened or forced to perform any sort of sexual activity
• Being kissed or touched without your consent or being made, by coercion or force, to touch or kiss someone

Effects of sexual violence:

• Having flashbacks about the sexual abuse
• Changes (either loss or increase) in your appetite
• Avoidance of anything that reminds you of the sexual abuse
• A decline in your physical and mental health
• Feeling edgy and fearful, especially around people who resemble the abuser in any way
• Feeling ashamed for what occurred
• An urge to use alcohol, drugs, or gamble excessively
• Feeling unsafe and scared that it would happen again

Everyone responds to experiencing sexual violence differently. It’s perfectly normal to go through very different emotions in a single day. Still, trying to cope with this on your own can be extremely difficult.

After surviving sexual violence, you might believe no one will understand your feelings. However, there are people in Northern Ireland who will give their best to understand you. Speaking freely about what you experienced could help you heal faster.

If you feel like you might need support with your experience of sexual violence, try reaching out to a hotline in Northern Ireland. It's free and confidential.