The Bridge – Help after rape and sexual assault

We provide advice and online resources to help you offer the right support to your patients.

Has someone you know been affected by sexual assault or rape? Find out how you can help, and the support we can offer you.

When did this happen?

Call The Bridge on 0117 342 6999
A Crisis Worker will listen to what has happened to you and explain how we can help
We can arrange for a doctor or nurse to examine you to check you are ok and look for forensic evidence
We will store forensic samples. If you decide to report to the police the samples can be used as evidence in their investigation
You can have an examination even if you have already washed, although there will be more DNA evidence on your body if you feel able to wait until after an examination
We will make sure that your sexual health is looked after
We can give you emergency contraception if needed
We will offer you practical and emotional support, including counselling.

Call the police on 101 or 999.
A specially trained officer will come to speak with you.
The officer may call The Bridge to arrange for a doctor or nurse to examine you to check you are ok and to look for forensic evidence.
You can have an examination even if you have already washed, although there will be more DNA evidence on your body if you feel able to wait until after an examination.
We will make sure that your sexual health is looked after.
We can give you emergency contraception if needed.
After you leave The Bridge an Independent Sexual Violence Adviser can support you with the police investigation.
We will offer you practical and emotional support including counselling.

Call The Bridge on 0117 342 6999.
A Crisis Worker will listen carefully and supportively to understand what happened to you, when it happened and what your situation is now.
The Crisis Worker will explain what support is available to you and help you to decide on your next steps.
You do not have to tell the Crisis Worker your name or contact details unless you choose to.
If you do give us your name and contact details, the Crisis Worker will help to arrange any support that you decide you want.
The support we can arrange includes sexual health care, advocacy and counselling.

Call the police on 101 or 999.
A specially trained officer will come to speak with you.
The officer will give The Bridge your details and ask us to contact you to offer you support.
The officer will arrange for you to complete a video interview. An Independent Sexual Violence Advisor can support you when you meet with the police for this interview. If you have not heard from an Independent Sexual Violence Advisor before your interview, ask the police why not.
Other support that The Bridge can arrange includes sexual health care and counselling.