“Hope is the thing with feathers that perches in the soul and sings the tune without words and never stops at all.”
― Emily Dickinson
What is sexual assault?
Sexual assault is a term used to describe a range of sex crimes committed against a person (or child). It is any unwanted or forced sex act or behaviour that has happened without a person’s consent.
Sexual assault may include:
- Rape (sexual intercourse without consent)
- Indecent assault (unwanted sexual touching)
- Acts of indecency (exposure) including children being exposurd to adult sexual behaviour or pornography
Sexual assault is a violent crime and it is not always committed by strangers. Often the offender is known to the victim, and it can occur within relationships or marriage. It can be a terrifying experience that may have long term effects on the victim regardless of their age, gender, status, culture, ability or sexuality.
ACC provides fully funded support for people who have been sexually assaulted via Sensitive Claims.
Who is eligible?
Any adult or child who experiences sexual violence in New Zealand, and in some cases NZ residents who experience sexual violence overseas. It doesn’t matter how long ago it happened ACC will support you when you are ready, you DO NOT have to report the event to the Police to get counselling from ACC for sexual violence. Everybody has a different response to the abuse they suffered. For example you might be depressed, anxious, have sexual problems, not be able to trust people, abuse drugs or alcohol, have nightmares or flashbacks, have relationship problems, or just feel unsafe. if you are unsure whether you meet ACC criteria talk to an ACC counsellor about your situation.
LifeCo Psychology Ltd has a number of registered male and female ACC Social Workers, Counsellors, and Psychologists, who are experienced in working with sexual trauma. Contact us if you would like more information, or check the ACC website https://www.findsupport.co.nz/