The impact of rape and sexual assault is varied and complex. Individuals react in different ways at different times and in the same way that no two people are the same, each person who has experienced sexual violence will react in a different way.

Learning about the impact of rape and sexual assault will help anyone working with or supporting a survivor to gain a better understanding about what they may be experiencing.

This course helps to challenge myths surrounding expected reactions to rape and sexual assault, and to understand the processes at play that may bring about different responses and reactions, in the moment and afterwards. We will go on to consider some practical ways in which we may respond, support that is available locally and nationally, and move on to reflect on the impact on us supporting someone who has been through these experiences.

Once your place on this event has been confirmed, you will receive a separate email with a link to the Microsoft Teams or Zoom meeting. Please note this email will be sent from the East Sussex Learning Portal. please make sure you check your Spam/Junk folders for this email.

The link to join the training will be sent one week before the day of the event.

By the end of this session, it is anticipated delegates will have had the opportunity to: 

• Define sexual violence and abuse


• Explore myths about rape and sexual violence and/or abuse


• Describe trauma and its impact


• Describe the impact of sexual violence and abuse on the health and wellbeing of the survivor


• Identify and implement support measures for survivors


• Explain what services and support are available in the city


• Identify own needs as a supporter.