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Sexual abuse and violence: #ItsNotOk for this to happen


February 04, 2025 - 302 views

When it comes to sexual abuse and sexual violence, quite simply #ItsNotOk for this to happen.

North Wales Police are supporting National Sexual Abuse and Sexual Violence Awareness Week – an initiative which began in 2016 which aims to raise awareness of sexual abuse and violence, and to provide an opportunity for any organisation or individual to engage in conversation.

This includes medical professionals, mental health services and charities, amongst others.

This year, the week runs between Monday, 3rd February and Sunday, 9th February.

Marking the start of the awareness week, Detective Inspector Clare Foreman from North Wales Police’ Amethyst Team said: “Rape and sexual abuse are horrendous crimes that have a profound and lasting impact on victims and there is no place for these crimes in society.

“We recognise that these crimes can be extremely difficult to talk about, but anyone affected should know that North Wales Police will take all complaints of rape and sexual offences seriously and will treat victims with respect and dignity.

“If you are a victim we have several options, including a dedicated reporting tool on our website. We also have a team specifically dedicated to investigating rape and serious sexual offences, working on prevention as well as investigation of these horrific crimes.

“We take all reports of rape and other sexual offences extremely seriously and will investigate every report sensitively, thoroughly and to ensure that the victim/survivor feels always supported and when they feel ready to do so.”

If you or someone you know has been a victim of rape or other sexual offences, we encourage you not to suffer in silence and report it to the police by calling 101 or 999 in an emergency.

You can also report information and crimes on the website Contact us | North Wales Police. Alternatively, you can report information anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Amethyst is an independent Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC) for North Wales, where a range of specially trained professionals provide help, support and information to adults, children and young people who have been raped or sexually assaulted in North Wales.

The centre work in partnership with the police, health and third sector voluntary services to ensure that victims of these crimes have access to the best possible care. 

For more information regarding this service, please visit the website - Amethyst - Sexual Assault Referral Centre - Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board or call 0808 156 3658

There are also lots of organisations and specialist support agencies available that can help and provide support for you. For more information on rape and serious sexual assault and the support services available to you, please visit:

Support after rape and sexual assault | North Wales Police