It can be difficult or uncomfortable to talk about sexual violence and abuse because misconceptions or myths about sexual violence are common.
A fear of not being believed, or of being blamed for what has happened, as well as feelings of shame or self-blame are all feelings a person can have when talking about their experiences.
We work to raise awareness of sexual violence and the needs of survivors so they are able to work through their experiences and access justice.
Trust House Reading provides a range of support services for people affected by rape and sexual abuse.
Helpline
Confidential phone line for people affected by rape and sexual abuse to access emotional support, information and signposting.
It doesn’t matter what has happened, we’re here to listen and to provide support in whatever way we can.
Your call would be answered by volunteers who have received specialist training and can support you to find information, to get in touch with services or to listen.
0118 958 4033
Therapeutic services
Specialist Counselling for Adults:
We offer a specialist one-to-one counselling service for people affected by rape, childhood sexual abuse and all forms of sexual violence with volunteers who have a qualification in counselling or are in their final year of training. Each volunteer counsellor has undergone an extensive induction on working with sexual violence.
Children and Young People Play Therapy and Counselling:
We offer specialist therapeutic support for children and young people between the ages of 4 to 17 years who have been affected by rape, sexual violence, sexual abuse and sexual exploitation. Specialist support for children and young people includes play therapy and one-to-one counselling.
ISVA Support
Trust House Reading’s Independent Sexual Violence Advisor will support people affected by rape and sexual abuse in Berkshire. The ISVA service will:
- Provide information about the police and courts system.
- Help clients understand the procedures and their rights within the courts system.
- Provide information and advice about health needs and options.
- Support clients to attend related appointments.
- Identify the services required and refer onto other agencies where appropriate.
- Liaise with other agencies involved e.g. Independent Domestic Violence Advocates (IDVA) and the police.
This service is available to people who are aged 18 and above. We accept self-referrals and referrals from other agencies. To access the service please email [email protected] or call 07809 330135.
Email Support:
Emotional support, information and advice on accessing other services for people affected by rape and sexual abuse either recently or in the past at [email protected]