Rose Mabiza

07-02-2024

Sexual Abuse and Sexual Violence Awareness Week 2025

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Sexual Abuse and Sexual Violence Awareness Week 2025: #ItsNotOk

In a world where silence often cloaks painful truths, there comes a time when the whispers of anguish must transform into a resounding chorus of strength, resilience, and unity. Sexual Abuse & Sexual Violence Awareness Week 2025 is that moment - a powerful movement that reinforces the message #ItsNotOk. This week is a call to action, amplifying voices, supporting survivors, and demanding change. It is a time to challenge stigma, break the silence, and stand together in the fight against all forms of sexual abuse and violence.

Why we need Sexual Abuse & Sexual Violence Awareness Week

• Raising awareness - Awareness is the first step toward change. Sexual Abuse & Sexual Violence Awareness Week 2025 reinforces the message #ItsNotOk, shedding light on the prevalence and impact of sexual abuse and violence. By challenging ignorance and dispelling misconceptions, we take a stand against a culture of silence and denial.
• Supporting survivors - The scars left by sexual abuse and violence run deep - physically, emotionally, and psychologically. This week reminds survivors that #ItsNotOk and that they are not alone. Organisations like Rape Crisis England and Wales, Victim Support, and SurvivorsUK provide crucial resources, support, and a safe space for those who need it most.
• Promoting consent and healthy relationships - Consent is a fundamental right, not an option. #ItsNotOk to ignore boundaries or dismiss the importance of respect in relationships. This awareness week fosters vital conversations about consent, healthy relationships, and dismantling harmful stereotypes to educate future generations.
• Empowering survivors - Strength comes from breaking the silence. Sexual Abuse & Sexual Violence Awareness Week 2025 encourages survivors to reclaim their voices, share their experiences, and stand together in solidarity. #ItsNotOk to suffer in silence - empowerment starts with being heard.
• Challenging victim-blaming and stigma - Survivors should never carry the burden of blame. #ItsNotOk to excuse perpetrators or perpetuate harmful myths. This week is about shifting the focus to accountability, ensuring that those responsible for sexual abuse and violence are held to account, and reinforcing a culture that supports survivors instead of silencing them.

Key facts and statistics

• A 2025 National Audit Office report found that 1 in 12 women in England and Wales has experienced sexual violence. (The Guardian)
• In 2025, reports showed that 2,400 children in the UK were under child protection due to concerns about sexual abuse.

Key organisations to support

In a world where support is crucial, various organisations in the UK are actively working to help survivors of different forms of violence and abuse. From helplines to safe spaces, these organisations offer vital assistance and strive to create a safer society for all.

• Rape Crisis England and Wales - This national organisation offers a helpline (0808 500 2222) and online chat available 24/7, providing crucial support for survivors.
• SurvivorsUK - Focused on male survivors, SurvivorsUK offers a safe space for men to seek help and healing.
• Victim Support - This organisation assists victims of all types of crime, offering a wide range of services and support.
• Refuge - Dedicated to ending domestic violence, Refuge provides support for women and girls affected by violence, including sexual violence.
• White Ribbon UK - Join the movement to end gender-based violence by encouraging men and boys to take action.

Conclusion

Sexual Abuse & Sexual Violence Awareness Week is more than just a seven-day campaign - it is a call to action that resonates far beyond this week. #ItsNotOk to ignore or minimise sexual abuse and violence, regardless of who commits these crimes or where they happen. This movement empowers survivors to heal, pushes for policy changes, and fosters a culture built on respect, consent, and accountability.

At The Mandatory Training Group, we recognise the critical role of education and compliance in preventing abuse and fostering safer environments. Our ComplyPlus™ platform provides essential training, policies, and safeguarding resources to help organisations create a culture of accountability, ensuring compliance with safeguarding regulations and best practices.

In a world where silence often shields injustice, this awareness week serves as a powerful beacon of hope, unity, and change. #ItsNotOk to let the abuse go unchallenged. Join the conversation, stand with survivors, and use education as a tool to prevent abuse.

Last updated on 06-02-2025

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