Sexual and Gender-based Violence (SGBV)
Gender based violence involves violence against individuals who are targeted because of their gender. Sexual violence is a form of gender-based violence. Sexual and Gender Based Violence (SGBV) can take multiple forms that include both physical violence and mental torment. Depending on the circumstances, some forms of SGBV may amount to torture.
Sexual and gender-based torture and ill-treatment may include:
- Rape and threats of rape
- Being stripped naked
- The application of electrical current to the genitals, buttocks, or breasts
- Insults and humiliation of a sexual nature constructed under fear, duress or force
- Psychological oppression, and/or abuse of power
The predominant targets of SGBV are women, girls, LGBTIQ+ persons, and gender non-conforming individuals. Men and boys can also be victims of SGBV, but women and girls are disproportionately affected.
Such a degrading experience is often difficult to talk about, and cultural sensitivities may make it even harder to do so.
If you have suffered any kind of sexual violence, it will be important to include information about this in your asylum claim in the UK, or in any other claim for justice. It is worth also looking at organisations who help survivors of sexual violence, such as:
| Organisation | Description | Contact |
| Rape Crisis | Support for women and girls who have experienced sexual violence |
0808 802 9999 |
| Childline | 24-hour support for young people on physical, sexual and emotional abuse |
0800 1111 |
| Survivors UK | Information for men and non-binary people who have experienced sexual abuse |
02035983898 |
| Victim Support | Support for victims of crime and traumatic incidents |
08 08 16 89 111 |
| Solace Women’s Aid | Supporting women experiencing domestic violence, rape and trafficking |
0808 802 5565 |
| Refuge | National domestic violence helpline for women and children |
0808 2000 247 |
Some of the law firms (solicitors) listed under Justice, accountability, and reparations may be able to advise you on civil legal claims in relation to cases of historic sexual abuse in the UK.
Follow the links below to find information on the following topics:
