Trauma Informed Responses and the Impact of Sexual Harm

This course is aimed at Barnsley professionals and explores the impact of sexual harm, including rape, sexual assault, and child sexual abuse. Experiences of sexual harm can have profound and long-lasting effects on both the emotional and physical wellbeing of those who are victimised. This session examines the scale of the issue, the impact on individuals, how professionals can respond effectively, and what trauma can look like following sexual harm. It also focuses on how practitioners can adopt trauma-informed approaches that actively support recovery.

Sexual harm remains widespread and significantly underreported. Data from organisations such as Office for National Statistics and Rape Crisis England & Wales indicates that 1 in 4 women and 1 in 18 men have experienced rape or sexual assault since the age of 16. Despite this, it is estimated that only around 15% of victims report sexual offences to the police, meaning the true scale is likely much higher. Additionally, many individuals experience repeated victimisation, and those subjected to sexual harm are at increased risk of mental and physical health difficulties.

The impact of sexual harm can be immediate and long-term. Survivors may experience trauma responses such as post-traumatic stress, anxiety, depression, shame, and difficulties with trust and relationships. Physical health impacts, substance misuse, and social isolation are also common. Research highlights that trauma following sexual harm can affect how individuals engage with services, often making it harder to seek or sustain support without sensitive, informed responses.

Societal attitudes towards sexual harm can further compound harm. Victim-blaming, stigma, and myths about sexual harm continue to influence how survivors are perceived and how they perceive themselves, creating additional barriers to disclosure and recovery. For professionals, understanding these wider societal responses is essential to providing effective, non-judgemental support.

A trauma-informed approach is central to good practice. Evidence shows that when professionals prioritise safety, choice, collaboration, trust, and empowerment, outcomes for survivors improve. Alongside this, recognising the emotional impact of working with sexual harm is vital—self-care and reflective practice are key components in sustaining the workforce and ensuring safe, effective support for others.

The aims of the session:

• Describe what sexual violence is
• Understand trauma-informed responses to sexual harm
• Recognise the short and longer-term impact of sexual harm
• Consider sexual harm and societal responses
• Appreciate how self-care supports us to carry out challenging work

This session CPD accredited and has limited space. To book your place please do so via PODS here.