Sexual abuse

What is it?
Sexual abuse is when one person forces another person into doing something sexual or of a sexual nature. It might be being forced to look at porn, being harassed by comments, touched sexually or being forced to have sex.

Sexual abuse doesn't just have to happen person to person, it can also be committed via the web so it's important to be aware of the risks of chatting to strangers on-line and that people you chat to may not always be who they say they are. You can be tempted to give out personal details but it's really important that you're careful about what details you give out online.

What if it happens to me?
The most important thing to remember is that it isn't your fault and that help is always available. Lancashire police take all allegations of sexual abuse very seriously and will do everything possible to help and support you. Ring 999 if you have an emergency or 0845 1 25 35 45 to speak to a trained officer.