We recognise that reporting a sexual violence incident is likely to be incredibly difficult. Barriers to reporting include fear, shame, disbelief, denial, worry about not being believed or being unaware that sexual violence has occurred. Taking the step to talk about an incident takes courage, resilience and bravery and we are always here to listen and offer support.
If you tell us about an incident of sexual violence, you don't have to make a formal report and can still access university support. The University will not submit a named report without your consent, unless there are concerns about safeguarding or fitness to practise. In these cases, staff may have a professional duty to make a formal report but will tell you before any action is taken.
Sexual Violence Liaison Officers
*FAQ
*START
*Q What is a Sexual Violence Liaison Officer (SVLO)?
*A Sexual Violence Liaison Officers are a group of University of Plymouth staff volunteers. All volunteers have been trained and accredited by LimeCulture, to provide short-term support to students who want to speak with someone about a sexual violence incident. Sexual Violence Liaison Officers aim to provide:
*L initial information and guidance to students that are considering whether to report an incident to the University or Police
*L signposting and referral information to external specialist services such as Independent Sexual Violence Advisors, Domestic Abuse Services, Sexual Assault Referral Centres (SARCs), Counselling
*L short-term emotional support
*Q How do I talk to an SVLO?
*A You can use the Speak Up Tool to report an incident to the Student Support and Conduct team including: domestic and relationship abuse, sexual assault and sexual harassment.
*L If you report an incident or request to speak to a Sexual Violence Liaison Officer, you will receive an initial response within five working days
*END
UPSU Advice
The UPSU Advice team offer free, confidential and independent support and guidance to University of Plymouth students. If you need support following an incident our team of Advisors will be able to talk you through the next steps and signpost you to appropriate services.
UPSU Advice Team
University information on sexual violence and misconduct
The University page features valuable FAQs on what to do if you have been assaulted , what your options are and a variety of links to uni support services inlcuding resources on the Sharepoint.
UoP Sexual Violence Page
Student Wellbeing Services
Student Wellbeing Services is a multi-disciplinary team comprising Mental Health, Counselling, and Pastoral & Spiritual Support. Working from Student Hub, if you complete a form they wil be able to direct you to the appropriate support.
Student Wellbeing Services Website
Support outside the University
The following external organisations can offer further support to survivors of sexual or gender-based violence:
- NHS information: Help after rape and sexual assault, including your nearest Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC).
- Togetherall students don’t have to come and speak to our staff, they can access mental health support online by registering for free.
- Rape Crisis provide specialist support and services for victims and survivors of sexual violence.
- Victim support: Options for support as a victim of crime
- NHS Choices: Help after rape and sexual assault
- Support Line: Confidential telephone helpline
- Mind: The mental health charity's guide to support options for victims of abuse
- The Survivors Trust: Specialist organisations throughout the UK
- Karma Nirvana: Charity that supports victims and survivors of forced marriage and honour-based abuse.
- Survivors UK: A free and confidential telephone helpline for men and boys who are dealing with the effects of sexual violence.
- First Light : an organisation for anyone wanting to access support following domestic abuse or sexual violence.
- Rainn: This free and anonymous helpline is available 24/7, for men who’ve experienced sexual abuse or assault and for those who care about them.
- Safeline: have a team of specialist staff with training in working with men and boys who have been raped or sexually abused. There is a range of services that they can offer including independent emotional and practical support and assistance and these are open to men and boys without discrimination.
- Male Survivors Partnership: Consortium of male survivor services working together to better support male survivors of sexual abuse, rape and sexual exploitation in the UK
- Operation Emotion: Plymouth-based charity for male survivors of sexual abuse.