RCGP Safeguarding toolkit
The aim of this toolkit is to enhance the safeguarding knowledge and skills that GPs already have to enable them to continue to effectively safeguard children and young people, as well as adults at risk of harm.
Part 2C: Identifying adult abuse and neglect
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.