Our ISVAs (Independent Sexual Advisors) have been specially trained to understand the unique challenges that men and boys face.
There is often shame and confusion associated with the assault because of a physiological response such as having an erection during the assault, leaving survivors to feel somehow responsible. This does not mean that you have invited or enjoyed the assault, it is simply a normal physiological response that you have no control over. It is not your fault. you are not alone, and you are not to blame. Our ISVAs understand the complexities of the trauma that victims and survivors will go through during and after experiencing sexual violence or abuse. They can work alongside you whether you decide to report or not.
Our ISVAs offer the time and space for you to express your feelings about what has happened to you. They will listen, believe, and not judge you and will work alongside you to help you make sense of what has happened.
Your ISVA will help you to make sense of what has happened and provide advice on strategies to cope and recover from the pain and hurt of the sexual violence you have experienced. They can also support you to access other services, such as counselling or drug and alcohol support.
Take a look at our dedicated
sexual violence website for more information and videos.
“Having someone understand at a time when I felt entirely alone was very useful, when for a long time I felt guilty as if it was my fault and was very dissociated from my own life. However, what I think was most impressive about the service is how there was an understanding that sexual violence impacts all aspects of your life, and my ISVA even helped me with other elements of my life such as University work and friends and forming relationships. Due to the support I feel safer emotionally. I understand why I responded the way I did, and I feel safer knowing my response was normal”.
