Sexual abuse and exploitation
Sexual abuse can include rape and sexual assault or sexual acts to which the adult at risk has not consented, could not consent or was pressured into consenting.
This can involve inappropriate looking, sexual teasing or innuendo or sexual harassment, as well as sexual photography or forced use of pornography or witnessing of sexual acts.
The following list may be indicators of sexual abuse:
- sudden change in behaviour
- sudden onset of confusion
- incontinence
- withdrawal
- overt sexual behaviour and language by the adult
- self-inflicted injury
- disturbed sleep pattern or poor concentration
- difficulty in walking
- torn, stained underwear
- pain or itching, bruising or bleeding in the genital area
- frequent infection
- a sexually transmitted disease, urinary tract or vaginal infection
- bruising to upper thighs and arms
- severe upset or agitation when being bathed
- pregnancy in a person unable to consent
If someone is in immediate danger, you should always call 999. In non-emergencies, you can also report domestic abuse to the police by calling 101.