Culture of Silence

Culture of Silence

It is widely accepted there is a culture of silence around sexual assault in the NHS. The report, published in the British Journal of Surgery, is the first attempt to understand the scale of the problem.

Registered surgeons – men and women – were invited to participate entirely anonymously, and 1,434 responded. Half were women: 63% of women had been the target of sexual harassment from colleagues 30% of women had been sexually assaulted by a colleague 11% of women reported forced physical contact related to career opportunities At least 11 incidents of rape were reported 90% of women and 81% of men had witnessed some form of sexual misconduct The actions of these individuals should not cast doubt or erode trust in an entire group of medical professionals, but when did it become the norm to witness sexual misconduct and do nothing to help?

If you’ve been the victim of rape or sexual assault, there are many different ways you can report it to the police. We understand it can be difficult. You might not be completely sure what happened or how to talk about it. Trained officers and partner organisations are here to listen and work together to support you in any way they can. Importantly, your information could help bring the offender to justice and make sure you, and other people in a similar situation, are kept safe.

Don’t suffer in silence. You are not what happened to you. It does not define you. You can begin your journey to recovery and we are here to support you. Let us help you today.

Call FREE on 0800 470 2009 or email Dr Victoria Handley at vhandley@handleylaw.co.uk