RCGP Safeguarding toolkit

Sexual abuse

This includes:

• rape, attempted rape or sexual assault
• inappropriate touch anywhere
• non- consensual masturbation of either or both persons
• non- consensual sexual penetration or attempted penetration of the vagina, anus or mouth
• any sexual activity that the person lacks the capacity to consent to
• inappropriate looking, sexual teasing or innuendo or sexual harassment
• sexual photography or forced use of pornography or witnessing of sexual acts
• indecent exposure.

Signs and indicators include:

• bruising, particularly to the thighs, buttocks and upper arms and marks on the neck
• torn, stained or bloody underclothing
• bleeding, pain or itching in the genital area
• unusual difficulty in walking or sitting
• foreign bodies in genital or rectal openings
• infections, unexplained genital discharge, or sexually transmitted diseases
• pregnancy in a woman who is unable to consent to sexual intercourse
• the uncharacteristic use of explicit sexual language or significant changes in sexual behaviour or attitude
• incontinence not related to any medical diagnosis
• self-harming
• poor concentration, withdrawal, sleep disturbance
• excessive fear/apprehension of, or withdrawal from, relationships
• fear of receiving help with personal care
• reluctance to be alone with a particular person.