Alex's Answer

Hi there, thank you for contacting Ask Alex.

 

It’s very brave of you to contact us, as we know it’s not always easy for young people to talk about sexual violence. But we want you to know that sexual assault is not okay.

 

Sexual assault happens when someone touches another person in a sexual manner without their consent, or when someone makes another person take part in a sexual activity with them without that person’s consent. It includes unwanted kissing and sexual touching. We hope this gives you more clarity, and we hope you are okay.

 

Do you think you could you seek some advice and support from someone you can trust? We know this can be a really hard thing to do, but it should be a trusted adult, as they will be best placed to help you through this difficult time. If you don’t want to talk to a parent, do you have any other relatives you could talk to, or even a youth worker or a teacher? You would also have the right to report the assault to the Gardaí.

 

Here are some websites you may find helpful to look at and get more information: Rape Crisis Centre (www.drcc.ie/services/helpline/); Túsla, and the HSE (Health Service Executive) also have information on sexual assault (www.tusla.ie).

 

You do not have to go through this alone. If you feel that you cannot talk to somebody you know just yet, then Childline is here for you, and we would really love to be here for you. At Childline, we are focused on you and what is important to you. Our services are free and available 24 hours a day. The team does not judge anything you say. You can contact us through our telephone service by calling 1800 66 66 66, or you can start a Live Chat on www.childline.ie by clicking on the Orange Tab on the right-hand side of your screen.

 

Take care of yourself. We hope to hear from you soon.

 

Alex