Sexual violence and abuse (SVA) are widespread public health issues that cause lasting physical and psychological harm to survivors. This article discusses service provision for SVA survivors within level 3 integrated sexual health services and explores how online resources can be improved to better support survivors. Given the under-reporting of SVA and the challenges that survivors face in accessing care, it is critical to develop digital platforms that are accessible, informative and supportive.
SVA includes rape, attempted rape, sexual harassment, trafficking for sexual exploitation and other non-consensual sexual acts (British Association for Sexual Health and HIV (BASHH), 2022; Crown Prosecution Service, 2024). There were an estimated 1.1 million incidents of sexual assault, affecting both men and women, recorded in England and Wales in 2022, with many more going unreported (Office for National Statistics (ONS), 2023). Survivors often face a range of health consequences, including unintended pregnancies, sexually transmitted infections (STIs), HIV/AIDS, and long-term physical and mental health issues (Campbell et al, 2001).
Integrated sexual health services play a key role in providing aftercare, including pregnancy testing, emergency contraception, and STI screening. Although sexual health services offer these essential medical services, there is a noticeable gap in the quality and availability of online resources across the UK.
With 92% of UK adults accessing the internet in 2020 (ONS, 2021), and many turning to digital platforms for health information, it is clear that improving the online presence of sexual health services is critical. Survivors often report difficulty finding clear, reliable information online about how to access support and what services are available. Addressing these gaps is essential to ensure survivors can confidently navigate their recovery journey.
Barriers to reporting SVA remain a major challenge. Survivors often experience fear, shame, and a lack of trust in institutions, which discourages them from seeking help (Ahrens et al, 2009). Although movements such as #MeToo have contributed to destigmatising discussions around SVA, there is still a need for healthcare services, including sexual health clinics, to become more approachable and foster supportive environments for survivors (Anderson and Overby, 2021).
Improving online resources
A critical area for service improvement is expanding and enhancing the digital resources available to SVA survivors. Current online platforms do not provide enough detailed, supportive and accessible information to guide survivors from disclosure to comprehensive care. Websites need to be designed with clear navigation and pathways, leading survivors through the support available at different stages of recovery.
Flinn et al (2023) highlighted that poor design and limited content on sexual health websites significantly reduce their usefulness for survivors. By creating well-structured, user-friendly websites, sexual health services can better meet the needs of survivors who may be seeking information anonymously.
Online platforms should also emphasise privacy and confidentiality, which are key concerns for many survivors. Clear information on how their data will be protected and options for accessing anonymous support are essential. Donne et al (2018) found that male survivors, in particular, value anonymity due to the additional stigma they face in seeking help. Ensuring that online resources provide options for anonymous engagement, such as through live chat services or confidential helplines, can encourage more survivors to reach out for support.
Addressing stigma and rape myths
Stigma and societal misconceptions about sexual violence act as significant barriers to help-seeking behaviour. Survivors often encounter harmful narratives, such as the belief that they are to blame for the assault, which can prevent them from disclosing their experiences or seeking care (Anderson and Overby, 2021). Online resources need to actively work to counteract these myths by providing accurate, empathetic information that supports survivors and encourages them to seek help. Public health campaigns, delivered through sexual health service websites and social media, can play a vital role in challenging these harmful beliefs and fostering a culture of support and understanding.
Collaborations with organisations such as BASHH can amplify the reach of these messages, ensuring that survivors feel validated and supported in their decision to seek help. Sexual health services should leverage social media and digital platforms to increase awareness of available resources and create a safe, stigma-free space for survivors.
Enhancing service pathways
Navigating the healthcare system can be daunting for survivors of SVA, who often face complex medical, psychological and legal challenges. Sexual health services must develop clear, structured pathways that guide survivors from their initial disclosure to receiving comprehensive care. This includes providing information about what to expect during medical examinations, psychological support and legal processes.
According to Caswell et al (2023), survivors are more likely to engage with services that provide clear, step-by-step guidance. Providing this information online allows survivors to access it at their own pace, reducing anxiety and building trust in the services offered.
Additionally, services should include survivor testimonials and feedback to create a sense of community and shared experience. By featuring stories from other survivors who have navigated the system, sexual health services can foster a sense of support and solidarity, reducing feelings of isolation.
Training and education for healthcare providers
The provision of effective care depends not only on service availability, but also on the competence and sensitivity of healthcare providers. Trauma-informed care, which focuses on creating safe, empowering environments for survivors, is essential. Ongoing training in trauma-informed approaches ensures that all staff are equipped to handle the needs of survivors sensitively and compassionately (Amin et al, 2017). This includes understanding the psychological impact of SVA, how to respond to disclosures, and how to avoid re-traumatisation.
By conducting regular training sessions and workshops, sexual health services can ensure that all staff, from receptionists to clinical staff, are well-prepared to support survivors. Trauma-informed care should be a standard part of all sexual health services, ensuring that survivors feel safe and supported throughout their care journey.
Collaboration and holistic care
Collaboration between sexual health services and other organisations, such as mental health services and legal aid agencies, is vital for providing holistic care to survivors. Survivors often require support beyond medical aftercare, including psychological counselling and legal assistance. Heskin et al (2022) found that survivors benefit from co-ordinated care that addresses their comprehensive needs. By fostering partnerships with community organisations and other support services, sexual health clinics can offer more robust, holistic care that supports survivors in all aspects of their recovery.
Leveraging technology for support
In addition to expanding online information, sexual health services should explore innovative uses of technology to support survivors. Mobile apps, for instance, can offer discreet access to vital resources, safety planning tools and contact information for support services. These apps can also provide survivors with reminders for appointments or medication, helping them stay engaged with their care without feeling overwhelmed.
Furthermore, virtual support groups and online counselling services can provide valuable emotional and psychological support to survivors who may not feel comfortable attending in-person sessions.
Conclusion and recommendations
To enhance support for SVA survivors, integrated sexual health services must focus on improving both online resources and service pathways. Developing user-friendly, comprehensive digital platforms will empower survivors by providing them with the information they need to make informed decisions about their care. Educational campaigns that address societal stigma and that challenge rape myths will create a more supportive environment for survivors to seek help.
Healthcare providers should undergo regular training in trauma-informed care to ensure that all staff can provide compassionate, effective support. Ensuring confidentiality and offering anonymous support options are critical to encouraging more survivors to engage with services.
Additionally, sexual health services should strengthen collaboration with mental health and legal aid organisations to provide holistic care that addresses the diverse needs of survivors.
Finally, embracing technology through mobile apps and virtual support services will further enhance the support available to survivors, providing them with the tools and resources they need for recovery.