What counts as sexual abuse and how can it affect someone?
Misconceptions about sexual abuse still persist in society. Too often, victims are dismissedortheir experiences minimised, silencing their voices and leading to underreporting. At Nexus, we are committed to #BreakTheSilence, raising awareness and supporting survivors in finding their voice. We advocate for greater education and training so everyone can understand sexual abuse and know where to seek help.
What is sexual abuse?
Sexual abuse is any unwanted behaviour of a sexual nature—physical, psychological, verbal, financial, or online—that causes distress. Examples include rape, sexual assault, harassment, intimate partner violence, grooming, and coercion. Sexual abuse can happen to anyone, regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, religion, sexuality, or class.
Awareness and education help open conversations, enabling victims and survivors to seek support. PSNI statistics (March 2021–Feb 2022) recorded 4,006 sexual offences—but many cases go unreported. Common myths like “If they didn’t say no, it’s not rape” or “Men can’t be abused” prevent reporting. Challenging these myths is essential to support survivors and create a safer society.
An important message we all need to remember: sexual abuse is NEVER the victim’s fault—the blame always lies with the abuser. Sexual abuse is about power and control, and the abuser knows exactly what they are doing. By starting open conversations about abuse, we #BreakTheSilence, removing the power and secrecy that abusers rely on.