Hampshire Constabulary treats all reports of rape and serious sexual assault very seriously. If you have been a victim of rape or serious sexual assault or you know of someone that has been use the information on this page to help you to get the support you need to report the crime.
What is rape?
A man commits rape if he intentionally penetrates the vagina, anus or mouth of another person with his penis, without their consent.
What is a serious sexual assault?
Assault by penetration - a person commits assault by penetration if he intentionally penetrates the vagina or anus of another person with a part of the body or anything else, without their consent.
What is sexual assault?
A person commits sexual assault if they intentionally touch another person, the touching is sexual and the person does not consent.
Reporting a rape or sexual assault
Any incident of rape or sexual assault should be report to the police. Hampshire Constabulary has specially trained officers to respond to any report of rape or serious sexual assault. A Sexual Offences Investigative Techniques (SOIT) officer will be assigned to a victim. The officer will support you from the point of report through to the conclusion of the case.
If you need an emergency police response, call Hampshire Constabulary on 999. If you want to talk to us about a historic rape or sexual assault call 101.
Vicitims who feel unable to report an assault to the police can still seek help my contacting Treetops, the Hampshire and Isle of Wight's Sexual Assault Referral Centre on 023 9221 0352 or visit www.treetopscentre.co.uk.
There are many myths around rape and sexual assualt - click here understand the truth.
Hampshire Constabulary's Don't Cross the Line campaign
Hampshire Constabulary's 'Don't cross the line' campaign aims to raise awareness of the chain of events that can lead to rape; how alcohol and drugs can affect behaviour, and dispel the myths around what rape is and what the consequences are.
The campaign website gives details on the law around rape and serious sexual offences, explores the statistics that give the truth about rape, and tells you where you can get help and support.
Staying Safe - schools awareness presentation
Hampshire Constabulary is working in partnership with secondary schools, colleges, universities and other other partner agencies to educate young people on the following areas:
- changes in relation to 'consent' under the Sexual Offences Act 2003,
- increased risk of vulnerability for potential victims when drinking alcohol or using drugs,
- consequences for potential offenders of engaging in non-consensual sex and,
- a positive 'stay safe' message.
The Staying Safe presentations are designed to support teaching staff who educate young people about these important issues, reinforcing the notion of responsible citizenship amongst young people.
If you would like more information about the Staying Safe presentation please contact your local Safer Neighbourhoods Team by calling 101.
Safety advice
Click here for advice on yours and others personal safety while on a evening out - it is relevant to both men and women.
Help and supportTreetops: Hampshire and Isle of Wight Sexual Assault Centre (SARC)
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