The Survivors Trust is delighted to announce that a free, national live chat service has been launched to help make it easier for individuals who have been affected by sexual violence or abuse to access support and information.

The Live Chat service provides safe, non-judgemental support, information and signposting to survivors of all genders, their supporters and professionals. The service is available to individuals aged 16+.

Whether you're feeling overwhelmed and need to talk, are looking for information about where you can access specialist support or want to know how you can best support a loved one, we are here. 

Why is a Live Chat service so important?

In the UK it is estimated that 1 in 6 people will experience sexual abuse or sexual violence. We want to ensure that every survivor has somewhere to turn to for safe, non-judgemental emotional support, and for information and signposting for specialist sexual violence support services. The Live Chat Service aims to improve accessibility to emotional support and information for anyone affected by sexual abuse or sexual violence in the following ways:

1. An easier, more comfortable way to express feelings and concerns

Seeking information or support about sexual violence or abuse is incredibly personal, and for many, picking up the phone to call a helpline may be incredibly daunting. For individuals who are dealing with the impact of trauma, or are feeling emotionally overwhelmed, it can be hard to express your thoughts out loud. Live Chat enables survivors to reach out for support and information by typing rather than speaking out loud which can help make communication easier for many.

2. Improved accessibility 

The Live Chat ensures survivors with hearing difficulties, individuals who may have speech problems, or any other challenges which make talking on the phone difficult, are still able to access the support and information they deserve.

3. A more discrete way for survivors to seek information and support

It has been evident during lockdown that not everyone has a safe, quiet space for private conversations. Live Chat will help survivors who don't have a quiet space to talk to still access vital support, without the worry of other people being nearby. 

In addition to our Live Chat service, survivors, their supporters and professionals can still call our free, confidential helpline 7 days-a-week for information and emotional support. Click here to view our helpline hours.