What is Sexual Abuse?
Examples: rape, indecent exposure, sexual harassment, inappropriate looking or touching, sexual teasing or innuendo, sexual photography, subjection to pornography or witnessing sexual acts, sexual acts or indecent exposure to which the adult has not consented or was pressured into.
People find sexual abuse particularly difficult to speak about. Patience and empathy is essential.
Possible Indicators:
Sudden change in behaviour
Sudden onset of confusion
Incontinence
Withdrawal
Overt sexual behaviour/language by the adult
Self-inflicted injury
Disturbed sleep pattern/poor concentration
Difficulty in walking
Torn, stained underwear
‘Love bites’
Pain/itching/bleeding or bruising in genital area
Sexually transmitted disease/urinary tract/vaginal infection
Bruising to upper arms and thighs
Frequent vaginal and urinary tract infection
Severe upset or agitation when bathing
Pregnancy in a person who is unable to consent
Don’t Ignore It. Report It!
If you suspect a neighbour, friend or family member is being neglected or abused, or you need help yourself:
Report it to the relevant Local Authority or Police.