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Young People

The havens can also help young people who have been raped or sexually assaulted. Our staff are trained to support people of all ages, and we also have specialist young persons workers for those aged between 13 and 18.

The most important thing we do at The Havens is to make sure you are okay, and to help you recover from the assault.

What we do when you first come in

Firstly, our specialist doctors will ask you about the assault. As well as taking care of the physical effects of the rape sexual assault, we will help you deal with the emotional consequences.

Then the doctors will examine your body to try to find evidence of what happened to you. These examinations are voluntary. They will only happen if you say they can.

We will advise you about how to deal with a possible pregnancy. If you need it we may give you medication to counter some sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

We’ll organise an appointment for you to come back in for follow-up care if that’s necessary.

We can also arrange for you to get support from other local services.

What we do in follow-up care

During your follow-up care you can see specially trained young persons workers.
These workers help you to get the right medical follow-up, such as tests for STIs, and medicines if you need any treatment. They can answer any questions you have about your sexual health. You can talk to them if you have any worries. And, if you want, they can organise for you to see a counsellor or another specialist service if you are finding it difficult to cope.

General advice for young people who have been sexually assaulted

It’s important to tell someone as soon as possible about the assault. That way you get the support you need. Talk to someone that you trust and feel comfortable with, such as a parent, friend, teacher or doctor. We can also help here at The havens.

As a young person, you have a right to confidentiality. However, the professional people you talk to might need to speak to a doctor or social worker, if they are worried about your safety. They will discuss this with you so you have the chance to raise concerns. They must take any concerns you have seriously.

There is more advice in coping with sexual assault:

• A Guide for Young People booklet [ Adobe PDF 2.5MB]
• Violence prevention booklet [ Adobe PDF 903KB]

It addresses common myths about the subject, explains terms and outlines the law. It also gives detailed practical advice, describes common emotional reactions to assault and suggests ways to cope.

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