Survivors of same-sex sexual assault face the same difficulties as other survivors of sexual assault. However, they may also have to deal with additional issues. These include:

• Beliefs that a woman cannot rape another woman or a man cannot rape another man
• Same-sex abusers have an additional weapon in the threat of "outing" their partner to family, friends, employers, or community
• GLBT survivors who are not yet out may fear coming out to family, friends, and co-workers, among others
• Fear of facing homophobia and prejudice may prevent GLBT survivors from coming forward or seeking help
• A person may fear being treated differently by police and other services if they disclose their sexual orientation
• Survivors of a sexual assault that was part of a hate crime may be further traumatised by the accompanying prejudice that motivated the crime

However, awareness of sexual violence is increasing in the GLBT community, and changing attitudes are making it easier to speak out about same-sex sexual assault and to get support.

The impact of rape

Sexual assault is an overwhelming experience which can lead to a whole range of feelings and reactions. Sexual assault is also a very personal experience and there is no right or wrong way to react. Each individual is different and each individual's way of coping will be different. Some common reactions to sexual assault include:

• Shock/Disbelief
• Fear
• Anger
• Shame/embarrassment
• Guilt
• Flashbacks
• Sleep Disturbance
• Depression
• Relationship difficulties

More info

Contact: ACON's Lesbian and Gay Anti-Violence Project

Tel: (AVP Report-Line) (02) 9206 2116
Free call: 1800 063 060

E-mail: avp@acon.org.au

NSW Rape Crisis Centre

NSW Rape Crisis is a twenty four hour telephone and online crisis, support and referral service for anyone in NSW who has experienced sexual violence.

Tel: (02) 9819 7357

Web: www.nswrapecrisis.com.au