How we support you.
Support for LGBTQIA+ people.
We provide specialist, trauma-informed support for LGBTQIA+ people affected by sexual violence and abuse.
We recognise that experiences of safety, identity, and support can be shaped by how you identify, and we are here to offer a safe, respectful space where you will be listened to, believed, and supported in your recovery.
"I have hope for the future."
-Anonymous, shared with consent.
You are not alone.
Sexual violence can affect anyone, including people who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, queer, intersex or asexual (LGBTQIA+).
If you are LGBTQIA+ and have experienced sexual violence at any point in your life, you are not alone — and support is available.
You do not need to explain everything clearly or use the “right words” to reach out.
We understand that LGBTQIA+ people may face additional barriers when seeking support.
You may worry about:
being judged or not believed
being “outed” or having your identity disclosed
discrimination or misunderstanding from services
whether the experience will be taken seriously
feeling isolated or disconnected from community support
concerns about reporting someone from within your community
These concerns are valid, and they are understood by our team.
What can make it harder to talk.
Common experiences.
People affected by sexual violence may experience a range of emotional and physical responses, including:
anxiety, fear, or panic
low mood, sadness, or emotional overwhelm
difficulty trusting others
feeling disconnected from yourself or others
difficulties with relationships or intimacy
sleep difficulties or intrusive memories
using coping strategies such as alcohol or substances
You do not need to be experiencing any of these to seek support.
What matters is how the experience is affecting you now.
What support looks like.
Our counselling and advocacy services are available to anyone who has experienced sexual violence.
When you contact us, we will:
listen without judgement
support you at your pace
respect your identity and lived experience
use your chosen name and pronouns
never pressure you to report to the police
never make assumptions about your sexuality or gender identity
Sexual violence is never your fault. Responsibility always lies with the person who caused harm.
Our commitment to you.
We are committed to providing a service that is safe, respectful, and inclusive.
This means:
your identity will never be disclosed without your consent
you will not be judged or questioned about who you are
you will be treated with dignity and respect at all times
we provide trauma-informed, confidential support
If you would like to understand more about how we organise different types of women’s support spaces, you can read about our women-only spaces.
Our support for LGBTQIA+ people
CRASAC provides specialist support for LGBTQIA+ people affected by sexual violence and abuse.
We offer:
one-to-one counselling
Independent Sexual Violence Advisor (ISVA) support
support whether or not you have reported to the police
support at any stage of your recovery
You do not need to have spoken to anyone before. You can start from wherever you are.
Improving our services.
We continue to develop our understanding and practice to ensure our service is inclusive and accessible for LGBTQIA+ people.
We welcome feedback if you would like to share your experience or help us improve our service.
Other support.
If you would like additional support, you may also find the following organisations helpful:
Get in Touch
If you are ready to talk, or just want to ask a question, you can contact us for confidential support.
We are here to listen, without pressure or judgement.