Rape and serious sexual assault
The police will help and take seriously anyone who comes to them saying they have had sex against their wishes or been attacked by someone wanting sex.
Man or woman, young or old, you will get as much help as we can give you.
These web pages provide information about how the police can help you if you have been sexually assaulted or abused, or if anyone you know has been assaulted in this way.
It explains step by step what happens after you report the crime to the police, and what we (and other organisations we can put you in contact with) will do next.
Only you can decide if you want to report the attack to the police. Whether this person is known to you or not we will do our utmost to find the person who attacked you and perhaps stop them from hurting anyone else.
We can also make sure you get all the support possible, from the police service and other specialist agencies. You can ask a friend or relative to go to the police with you - many people find it helps not to be alone.
As well as talking to you to find out what has happened, we will ask a doctor (if you want us to) to examine you. Your health and your feelings come first - both the Solace officer and the doctor will explain why they need to ask you questions or examine you. If anything doesn't seem to make sense, ask them to explain it again.
Sexual offences are serious crimes and Leicestershire Constabulary deal with all these incidents diligently.
We endeavour to find whoever committed this serious crime against you and to bring them to justice. But as well as dealing with the crime, Leicestershire Constabulary's Solace Unit are dedicated to help you as much as possible.
Our duty of care
If you have been a victim of rape of serious sexual assault, whoever you are, we promise to:
- be sensitive and polite;
- explain everything so you can be sure you understand what is happening; and
- make you as comfortable as possible.
You will have the support of a Solace Officer to look after you. This officer has received special training to deal with this type of matter.
The Solace officer who deals with your case will be dedicated and experienced in this form of crime. We will be discreet and tactful and will investigate the crime against you thoroughly.
