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Choosing Not to Report after Being Raped or Sexually Assaulted
Do I have to report Rape or Sexual Assault?
Choosing Not To Report Rape or Sexual Assault
Choosing not to report after being raped or sexually assaulted is okay…
Many people question what the best thing to do is after being raped or sexually assaulted
There is no right or wrong answer…
Do what is best for you.
If you have been raped or sexually assaulted very recently (within the last 7 days), it would be beneficial to visit a Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC) to get a ‘forensic medical examination’. You can do this without having to report the offence to the police. This just means you can have DNA evidence gathered and stored…just in case you decide to report in the future. You may also want to visit a sexual health clinic to check for any STI’s.
There are lots of reasons to report, the most common thing we hear is “I want to stop it from happening to anyone else”, which is extremely kind and considerate, but you are not responsible for other people’s actions. Yes, a conviction may help prevent further offences occurring but that doesn’t have to be your main motive.
A lot of survivors want to know they have done everything they can, whether that is to get justice or closure, but that can look different for different people, it doesn’t have to include getting a conviction. Mostly, survivors want their truth to be heard and believed and there are other ways to achieve that.
Two questions we will always ask a survivor who is struggling to decide…
- Is going through the criminal justice process going to be detrimental to your mental health?
If the answer is yes…Now might not be the right time.
- Is not reporting going to cause further distress and leave you wondering and worrying?
If the answer is yes…It is probably best to report
Anonymous Reporting
You do have an option to provide anonymous intelligence about the offence/offender.
You can either go to crime stoppers or most ISVA services will have a facility to take information about the crime and pass it on to the police, without revealing your identity.
The police will check the Police National Database to see if the offender is known to them for similar offences, if so, they may come back to the ISVA to ask for further information. You do not have to make a formal report, but some survivors find reassurance in knowing they are not the only person who has raised concerns about the offender.
there is help for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to report rape to the police?
No. Reporting rape or sexual assault is your choice. You can still access support, counselling and medical services whether or not you report to the police.
Can I collect evidence without reporting?
Yes. If the assault happened recently, a Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC) may be able to collect and store forensic evidence without requiring a police report.
Can I report rape anonymously
You do have an option to provide anonymous intelligence about the offence/offender.
You can either go to crime stoppers or most ISVA services will have a facility to take information about the crime and pass it on to the police, without revealing your identity.
Do I have to report rape if I am under 18?
No. If you are under 18 and have experienced rape or sexual assault, you do not have to report it to the police to receive support. You can access specialist services, healthcare and emotional support whether or not you decide to make a police report.
However, professionals who work with children and young people may have safeguarding responsibilities if they believe you or another child is at risk of harm. They should explain what information may need to be shared and involve you in those discussions wherever possible.
The ILCSA report recommended mandatory reporting of child sexual abuse in certain circumstances but this has yet to be passed in law.
