Sexual violence – the facts
Anyone can experience rape or sexual abuse at any point in their lives.
Sexual violence is any kind of sexual activity or act (including online) that is unwanted. It includes but is not limited to one or more of the following:
• pressure
• manipulation
• bullying
• intimidation
• threats
• deception
• force.
Research suggests that people with a learning disability are at much greater risk of sexual abuse and assault than the general population. Studies show that the incidence of abuse among people with disabilities is as much as four times higher than it is among the non-disabled population.” (Mencap, Behind Closed Doors report (2001)
Recent studies also show that autistic people may be up to three times as likely as their neurotypical counterparts to experience bullying, and physical or sexual abuse. (Enhance the UK, Neurodiversity and Abuse, December 2022).
More information
The latest from our news and blogs
Spotlight behind Hollyoaks sibling sexual abuse (SSA) storyline
For this blog, we’re joined by Tanith McCulloch, SARSAS Sibling Sexual Abuse Project Officer, as we go behind the scenes (and the screens!) to talk about our decision to work with Hollyoaks to help bring the message of sibling sexual abuse to a brand new audience.
